Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a free kick and become the first player ever to score in seven consecutive World Cup games, as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 to win all three group matches at a finals for the first time.
Messi's Record-Breaking Free Kick
Introduced on the hour mark, Messi curled a free kick around the wall and past goalkeeper Yawed Abulaila to seal the victory. The goal extended his scoring streak to seven World Cup matches, a run that began against Australia in the last 16 of the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni had rested Messi, giving other players a chance to shine. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a sublime free kick into the top corner, and Lautaro Martinez added a second from the penalty spot after Marcos Senesi was kicked in the head during a scramble.
Lo Celso and Martinez Star Before Messi's Entrance
Lo Celso had an early goal ruled out for offside but made amends with his set-piece strike. Martinez hit the post before winning and converting the penalty. Argentina dominated, with Nicolas Otamendi heading just wide and Martinez denied by Abulaila.
Jordan pulled one back through substitute Mousa Altamari, who beat Emiliano Martinez from close range. That goal prompted Scaloni to send on Messi immediately.
Messi's Impact and Historic Achievement
Messi nearly scored with his first free kick, whistling it just over the crossbar. But he made no mistake with the second, curling it perfectly into the net. According to FIFA statistics, Messi is the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.
The win meant Argentina finished top of their group with a perfect record, a first for the nation at a World Cup finals. Messi's cameo ensured he remained the center of attention, even when given a rest.
