Argentina secured a 3-1 victory over Jordan to finish the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J stage with a perfect three-win record. Goals from Giovani Lo Celso, Lautaro Martínez, and Messi propelled the defending champions to nine points, setting up a Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde on July 3 at Miami Stadium.
How did Argentina perform in Group J?
Argentina finished the group stage with a perfect record of three wins and nine points.
The team’s lineup featured Emiliano Martínez in goal, supported by a defensive unit of Exequiel Palacios, Nicolás Otamendi, Marcos Senesi, and Nicolás Tagliafico. The midfield was led by starters Giuliano Simeone, Nico Paz, Leandro Paredes, and Lo Celso, while Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez occupied the attacking roles.
Messi’s recent goal against Jordan brings his total to six goals in the 2026 tournament, keeping him at the top of the scoring charts.
Who scored the goals in the Argentina vs. Jordan match?
Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring for Argentina in the 19th minute with a free kick directed into the top-left corner. Lautaro Martínez extended the lead in the 31st minute by successfully converting a penalty kick.
Jordan responded in the second half when Mousa Al-Tamari scored in the 55th minute to reduce the deficit. Messi, who entered the match as a substitute for Lautaro Martínez in the 60th minute, secured the win with an 80th-minute free kick to the bottom-left corner.
While Rodrigo De Paul was included in the matchday squad, he remained on the bench and did not see playing time, according to official match reports.
What happens next for Argentina in the World Cup?
Argentina moves directly into the Round of 32. The team is scheduled to face Cape Verde on Friday, July 3. The match will take place at Miami Stadium with a scheduled kickoff at 6 p.m. ET.
The defending champions will look to build on their group stage success as they attempt to progress through the knockout phase. The upcoming match against Cape Verde serves as a critical test for the squad’s depth and tactical consistency following their perfect group performance.
Keep an eye on the substitution patterns. Argentina’s ability to bring in high-impact players like Messi in the second half has been a deciding factor in their recent goal production.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Argentina’s current standing in the tournament?
Argentina finished the group stage with a perfect record of three wins and nine points.
How many goals has Messi scored in the 2026 World Cup?
Messi has scored six goals so far, currently leading the tournament’s top scorers list.
When and where is Argentina’s next match?
Argentina plays Cape Verde on July 3 at 6 p.m. ET at Miami Stadium.
What are your predictions for the Round of 32? Will Argentina maintain their perfect record? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more World Cup updates.
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