In a memorable match held in Arlington, Texas, Lionel Messi continued to impress by extending his record at the World Cup. As a substitute in the second half, Messi scored, making it seven consecutive World Cup games with goals and breaking the all-time men’s World Cup scoring record.
Messi’s 80th-minute goal against Jordan secured Argentina’s 3-1 victory in the group stage. The goal marked his 19th World Cup goal and came three days after his 39th birthday. Impressively, Messi’s free kick goal was his 72nd overall, including his 12th for Argentina. His international tally now stands at 123 goals, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo’s 145 goals.
Messi joins the ranks of Just Fontaine and Jairzinho, who also scored in six consecutive World Cup matches. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged Messi’s unrivaled accomplishments. “What you’re seeing, I’m seeing the same thing,” Scaloni stated, expressing his admiration for Messi’s consistent performance.
Among players since records began in 1966, Messi is one of six who achieved two free kick goals in World Cup history, alongside Pelé, Rivellino, Téofilo Cubillas, Bernard Genghini, and David Beckham. Fellow Argentine Giovani Lo Celso expressed his excitement, declaring Messi’s presence and performance infectious and essential for the team.
Even though Argentina had already secured their position at the top of Group J, and with Jordan eliminated from progressing further, fans packed into the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium. A pro-Argentina crowd of 70,649 chanted Messi’s name as soon as the second half commenced, showing eagerness to witness his appearance on the field.
Messi substituted Lautaro Martinez in the 60th minute amid loud cheers. Martinez had earlier scored through a penalty. Messi, with six goals in the tournament, leads ahead of rivals Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Júnior, and Erling Haaland.
Despite dealing with a hamstring issue from his time with Inter Miami prior to the World Cup, Messi’s performance remains exceptional. The knockout phase for Argentina begins in South Florida this Friday. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, Argentina aspires to reach the final on July 19. Scaloni assured fans that Messi is thinking beyond accolades, focusing on teamwork and the upcoming challenges.
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