Argentina wrapped up a 3-1 victory over Jordan in Group J, confirming top spot before the knockout round. Coach Lionel Scaloni shuffled nine starters, trusting his bench as the hosts pressed early. Giovani Lo Celso curled a free‑kick past the keeper, and Lautaro Martínez converted a penalty to make it 2‑0 before halftime.

Substitute Mousa Al‑Tamari answered with a well‑crafted team goal in the 55th minute, pulling Jordan within one. Scaloni then introduced Lionel Messi at the hour mark; the 39‑year‑old maestro delivered a low free‑kick that slipped under the Jordanian goalkeeper, marking his sixth tournament goal and seven consecutive World Cup matches with a score.

The win sends Argentina into the last‑32 against Cape Verde, tightening their defensive record while preserving Messi’s limited minutes. With only four days between knockout games, Scaloni must balance rest and rhythm for an aging squad. Messi’s record‑breaking streak underscores his influence, but the real test will be maintaining intensity through a compressed schedule.

Jordan’s brief resurgence highlighted their growing confidence, yet defensive lapses allowed Argentina to dominate possession and create the majority of chances. Lo Celso’s early free‑kick set the tone, and Martínez’s penalty reinforced the hosts’ clinical edge. The result solidifies Argentina’s reputation as tournament favorites, with Messi’s historic feat adding a memorable chapter to his World Cup legacy.