FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina overpower Jordan 3-1 as Lionel Messi seals victory after substitute appearance

Defending Champions Argentina finished their group stage campaign at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 on a high note, after claiming a great 3-1 win over Jordan in their Group J encounter on Sunday, June 28 at the Dallas Stadium. Despite having Messi on the bench, the Copa America champions backed their squad depth in the final game of their group.

Dominating Argentina in the first-half

The first half was filled with sheer dominance from the Argentine team, as their highly talented midfield took complete control of the ball possession. Midfielder Giovani Lo Celso found the net early on, only to see his brilliant solo effort disallowed by a tight offside call. However, he found success in the second effort, curling a left-footed free-kick that went straight into the top corner.

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Argentina doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark when a dangerous tackle inside the box triggered a VAR review, giving Laurtaro Martinez a penalty kick that he simply scored to secure a 2-0 halftime cushion.

Jordan's tough challenge in the second-half

Jordan refused to fold quietly and mounted a determined response quickly after the interval, sending on Talisman Musa Al-Taamari as a substitute. The tactical decision seemed to work for them as Taamari scored a goal off Ihsan Haddad's perfect cross. After Jordan's first goal, Lionel Scaloni immediately sent Lionel Messi from the bench. The legendary playmaker restored the order, sliding home a clinical finish in the 80th minute to deflate Jordan's comeback hopes and carry a winning momentum into the Round of 32.