Los Angeles, Jun 28 (V7N) – Lionel Messi once again showcased his trademark brilliance on the 2026 FIFA World Cup stage, scoring a sensational free-kick against Jordan to become the first player in World Cup history to score in seven consecutive matches.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni introduced the 39-year-old captain in the 60th minute, replacing Lautaro Martínez after the reigning world champions had already established control of the match.
Moments after coming on, Messi made an immediate impact. Awarded a free-kick just outside the penalty area, the Argentine superstar curled a trademark effort into the top corner to give Argentina a commanding 3-1 lead.
With the goal, Messi surpassed the previous record of scoring in six consecutive World Cup matches, which he had shared with French legend Just Fontaine (1958) and Brazil's Jairzinho (1970). The strike made him the first player to score in seven straight World Cup appearances, adding another milestone to his illustrious career.
Earlier in the second half, Scaloni reshaped his side by introducing Thiago Almada and Alexis Mac Allister in place of Giovani Lo Celso and Nico Paz to add fresh energy to the midfield and attack.
However, it was Messi who stole the spotlight. As he stood over the free-kick, anticipation filled the stadium before his trademark curling effort found the back of the net, sending Argentina supporters into celebration and etching another historic chapter into World Cup history.
The goal further strengthened Argentina's dominance as the defending champions moved closer to ending the group stage with a perfect record before shifting their focus to the knockout rounds.
END/SMA/AJ
