Lionel Messi became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in seven consecutive tournament matches during a 3-1 group-stage victory over Jordan
The Argentine captain netted his 19th career World Cup goal with an 80th-minute free kick to extend his record as the all-time leading scorer
Defending champion Argentina finished at the top of Group J with a perfect record and advanced to face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami
Lionel Messi continues to rewrite global soccer history on the biggest stage imaginable. The Argentine superstar officially became the first player to score in seven consecutive 2026 FIFA World Cup matches during a decisive 3-1 victory over Jordan. Securing the top spot in Group J with an unblemished record guarantees the defending champions an upcoming Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde. The milestone adds another unprecedented layer to an already legendary career. Thousands of traveling supporters packed the venue to watch the revered playmaker cement his legacy during the group-stage finale.
Manager Lionel Scaloni opted to rest his veteran captain for the majority of the first half to preserve his fitness for the demanding knockout rounds. Messi eventually entered the pitch as a second-half substitute to rapturous applause from the crowd. He immediately dictated the tempo and capitalized on an 80th-minute free kick to curl the ball into the back of the net. The spectacular strike marked his 19th career World Cup goal and effectively sealed the match. Finding a way to impact the game with limited minutes showcases his enduring technical brilliance just three days after his 39th birthday.
The defending champions now advance to the knockout stages carrying immense momentum and unmatched confidence. Argentina travels to South Florida to face Cape Verde in a highly anticipated bracket fixture. Competing in Miami carries deep cultural and personal significance for the veteran forward following his extensive club tenure in the coastal city. Establishing a perfect record in Group J positions the South American powerhouse as formidable favorites to go all the way. The entire roster remains laser-focused on retaining the prestigious international trophy.
Securing six goals across the opening matches places the Argentine forward firmly at the forefront of the 2026 Golden Boot race. He successfully surpassed the legendary consecutive scoring marks previously held by icons Just Fontaine and Jairzinho. Performing at this elite offensive level defies all conventional athletic timelines for a player nearing 40 years old. Global audiences continue to marvel as the global icon pushes the boundaries of the sport into uncharted territory. The upcoming single-elimination phase provides a massive platform for even more record-breaking achievements.
