Argentina March into World Cup knockouts after Messi sinks spirited Jordan

Defending champions Argentina completed the FIFA World Cup group stage with a flawless record after defeating tournament debutants Jordan 3-1 at Dallas Stadium on Sunday, securing top spot in Group J and extending their impressive unbeaten run heading into the knockout rounds.

Despite making nine changes to the side that defeated Austria in their previous outing, Lionel Scaloni’s team displayed the quality and depth expected of the world's top-ranked nation.

Goals from Giovani Lo Celso, Lautaro Martínez and substitute Lionel Messi ensured Argentina finished the group phase with three wins from three matches and maximum points.

Argentina dominated possession from the opening whistle, patiently probing Jordan’s compact defensive setup.

Lo Celso had an early effort ruled out for offside before breaking the deadlock in the 19th minute with a magnificent left-footed free-kick that curled beyond goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila.

The South Americans doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark when VAR awarded a penalty after Julián Álvarez was kicked in the face while challenging for the ball inside the penalty area.

Lautaro Martínez confidently converted from the spot to register his first World Cup goal and give Argentina a comfortable 2-0 halftime lead.

Jordan emerged from the interval with renewed energy after coach Jamal Sellami introduced Mousa Al Tamari and Mahmoud Al Mardi.

Their impact was immediate, as the pair combined brilliantly before captain Ehsan Haddad delivered a precise cross for Al Tamari to slide home in the 55th minute, giving the Asian side hope of an unlikely comeback.

However, Argentina’s experience ultimately proved decisive.

Messi entered the contest on the hour mark to a thunderous reception and settled the match ten minutes from time with another trademark free-kick.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner expertly curled a low effort around the wall and into the bottom corner for his sixth goal of the tournament, underlining why he remains one of the competition's most influential players.

Argentina scored eight goals without suffering defeat during the group stage, demonstrating the balance between attacking brilliance and defensive discipline that carried them to World Cup glory four years ago.

Under Scaloni, La Albiceleste have developed into one of international football’s most consistent teams, adding the 2021 and 2024 Copa América titles to their historic 2022 World Cup triumph.

Jordan, the defeat brought an end to a memorable first-ever World Cup campaign.

Although they exited without a point, the Chivalrous Ones earned admiration for their determination and fearless approach against more established opposition.

Al Tamari’s goal against the reigning champions will remain a landmark moment in Jordanian football history.

Argentina will face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on July 3, while Jordan return home.

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