Dallas, June 29, 2026: Lionel Messi once again demonstrated why he remains one of football’s greatest icons, scoring a stunning free-kick to help defending champions Argentina secure a 3-1 victory over Jordan and finish unbeaten at the top of Group J in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Despite fans eagerly awaiting his appearance, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni kept Messi on the bench until the 60th minute. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner wasted little time making an impact, finding the net with a trademark free-kick in the 80th minute to seal Argentina’s third consecutive win of the group stage.
Argentina concluded their Group J campaign with a perfect nine points from three matches and will now face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on Friday.
Midfielder Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a superb free-kick, while striker Lautaro Martínez doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 31st minute. Jordan reduced the deficit early in the second half when Musa Al-Taamari converted a cross from Ehsan Haddad.
Messi’s late strike not only secured victory but also strengthened his position in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot. The Argentine captain has now scored six goals in three matches, moving ahead of leading contenders including Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé, Vinícius Júnior and Erling Haaland.
Austria and Algeria Advance After Thrilling 3-3 Draw
In another dramatic Group J encounter in Kansas City, Austria and Algeria played out an entertaining 3-3 draw, with Austria clinching second place and a spot in the Round of 32.
Austria finished with four points from three matches, edging Algeria in the standings. Algeria also progressed as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams and will next face Switzerland in Vancouver.
Marko Arnautović gave Austria the lead in the 28th minute, but Algeria equalized through Rafik Belghali shortly before halftime. Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s advantage early in the second half before Algerian star Riyad Mahrez struck twice to put his side ahead 3-2 in stoppage time.
However, Austria had the final say as towering striker Sasa Kalajdzic scored a dramatic last-minute equalizer, ensuring a share of the points and Austria’s passage to the knockout stage.
The thrilling conclusion to Group J saw Argentina finish first with nine points, Austria second with four points, and Algeria also progressing after a resilient campaign.
