Lionel Messi Sets New World Cup Records as Argentina Dominates Group Stage

Lionel Messi has made history by scoring in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, leading Argentina to a perfect record in Group J. With his latest achievements, Messi has solidified his status as Argentina's all-time leading scorer in the tournament. Argentina's head coach made significant changes to the lineup, yet the team dominated Jordan, securing a 3-1 victory. As they prepare to face Cape Verde in the Round of 32, Messi's remarkable performance continues to capture the attention of football fans worldwide. Discover more about Messi's record-breaking journey and Argentina's World Cup campaign.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 28, 2026, 14:17 IST

Messi Achieves Historic World Cup Feat

Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, has made football history by becoming the first male player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches. This achievement comes as he continues to shine during Argentina's flawless group-stage performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026.

He is now one of only four players to score in all three group-stage matches of a single World Cup since the tournament format changed in 1998, joining the ranks of Cristiano Ronaldo (2018), David Villa (2010), and Fernando Torres (2010).

Messi's remarkable scoring streak kicked off with a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match of Group J, followed by a brace against Austria. Although he started on the bench in Argentina's final group match against Jordan, he entered the game in the 60th minute and sealed the victory with a signature free-kick in the 80th minute, marking his scoring streak at seven consecutive World Cup appearances.

This latest goal brought Messi's total to 19 goals in FIFA World Cup history, further solidifying his status as Argentina's all-time leading scorer in the tournament. He currently leads the tournament with six goals after the group stage.

Argentina Secures Top Spot in Group J

With qualification already secured, Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni made significant changes to the lineup against Jordan, fielding nine new players. Despite these alterations, the reigning champions showcased their dominance, achieving a convincing 3-1 victory to finish at the top of Group J with a perfect record of three wins.

Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring for Argentina in the 19th minute with a stunning curling free-kick from approximately 20 yards, leaving goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila unable to react.

Argentina extended their lead shortly after the half-hour mark when a VAR review awarded a penalty after Ihsan Haddad fouled Marcos Senesi in the box. Lautaro Martinez successfully converted the penalty, marking his first FIFA World Cup goal and providing La Albiceleste with a comfortable lead at halftime.

Jordan fought back in the second half, reducing the deficit in the 55th minute when Haddad's low cross was converted by Musa Al-Tamaari from close range.

Scaloni brought Messi onto the field in the 60th minute, and he quickly made an impact. With just ten minutes left, Messi curled in a low free-kick past Abulaila, restoring Argentina's two-goal lead and securing the win.

Looking Ahead: Round of 32

Argentina is set to face tournament newcomers Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 4 (local time). Meanwhile, Jordan's first World Cup journey concludes after three losses, although they managed to score in each of their group-stage matches.