Messi Leads Argentina to Perfect World Cup Group Stage Finish

Lionel Messi's leadership shines as Argentina completes a flawless group-stage campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2026. With a stunning free-kick, Messi sets a new record for goals scored from outside the penalty area, while also achieving personal milestones that solidify his legacy. Argentina celebrates its 50th World Cup victory and prepares to face Cape Verde in the knockout stage. Discover the highlights of this historic match and Messi's remarkable achievements.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 28, 2026, 15:18 IST

Unity and Victory for Argentina

Lionel Messi emphasized togetherness after Argentina concluded a flawless group-stage campaign in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Following their 3-1 win against Jordan, the captain shared on Instagram, "One more win to complete the group stage. We're still together." This victory marked another remarkable achievement for the 39-year-old, who set a new record for the most goals scored from outside the penalty area in World Cup history with a stunning free-kick.

Messi's Historic Achievement

Messi, who was brought on in the 60th minute, netted Argentina's third goal in the 80th minute, marking his sixth World Cup goal from outside the box and breaking the previous record held by Brazilian legend Rivelino, who had five.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Leo Messi (@leomessi)

Personal Milestones for the Star Player

This goal increased Messi's total World Cup goals to 19, reinforcing his status as Argentina's top scorer in the tournament's history. It was also his sixth goal in the current tournament, following a hat-trick against Algeria and two goals against Austria in the initial group matches.

Additionally, Messi became the first male player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, further enhancing his illustrious international career. He also joined an exclusive group of players, being only the fourth to score in all three group-stage matches of a single World Cup since the format's inception in 1998, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo (2018), David Villa (2010), and Fernando Torres (2010).

Argentina Celebrates 50th World Cup Victory

The win was also a milestone for Argentina, marking their 50th victory in World Cup history, making them the third nation to achieve this feat after Brazil and Germany.

With their qualification secured, head coach Lionel Scaloni opted for nine changes in the starting lineup, yet Argentina maintained dominance throughout the match. Giovani Lo Celso celebrated his World Cup debut with a spectacular first-half free-kick, and Lautaro Martinez converted a penalty following a VAR review. Although Jordan posed a brief challenge with Musa Al-Tamaari's goal in the 55th minute, Messi's entry shifted the game's dynamics, and his late free-kick sealed the match, ensuring Argentina finished the group stage with a perfect record.

Looking Ahead

Argentina is set to face Cape Verde, a tournament newcomer, in the Round of 32 on July 4 in Miami, while Jordan exits the tournament after losing all three group-stage matches.