FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina ease past Jordan 3-1 to finish group stage with all-win record
Arlington
June 28: Reigning champions Argentina completed the FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage with a flawless record after defeating Jordan 3-1 to seal top spot in Group J.
Having already secured qualification to the Round of 32 before kickoff, head coach Lionel Scaloni opted to rotate his squad heavily, making nine changes to the starting lineup. Captain Lionel Messi began the match on the bench. Despite the reshuffle, Argentina dominated proceedings from the outset and took control with two first-half goals.
The breakthrough arrived in the 19th minute when Giovani Lo Celso curled a superb free-kick into the net from around 20 yards, giving Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila no chance. Argentina continued to dictate possession and doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark.
Following a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty after Ihsan Haddad fouled Marcos Senesi. Lautaro Martinez calmly converted from the spot, registering his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and handing La Albiceleste a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into halftime.
Jordan showed greater intent after the restart and found a way back into the contest in the 55th minute. Haddad redeemed himself by delivering a dangerous low cross that Musa Al-Tamaari slid home to reduce the deficit and briefly raise hopes of a comeback.
Scaloni responded by introducing Messi on the hour mark, with the Argentina captain receiving a warm ovation from the crowd. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner ensured there would be no late drama as he produced another moment of brilliance with 10 minutes remaining. His trademark low free-kick beat Abulaila to restore Argentina's two-goal cushion and secure a convincing 3-1 victory.
The strike also extended Messi's record as Argentina's highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history with his 19th tournament goal.
Argentina finished the group stage with three wins from three matches and will now face tournament debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 4 (Local Time).
Jordan, meanwhile, bowed out of their maiden World Cup campaign after three defeats, though scoring in each of their group matches offered encouragement for the future.
— ANI
Reader Comments
What a tournament this has been for Argentina. They're playing like true champions. But I feel for Jordan—they gave it their best and even scored against the world champions! That's no small feat for a team playing their first World Cup. With proper development, Asian football is rising. India should take notes. 🇮🇳⚽
Messi just keeps breaking records. 19 World Cup goals—that's insane. And that free-kick was trademark quality. Argentina are definitely favourites to retain the title. Cape Verde will be no pushover though, they've been impressive.
Honestly, I'm more impressed by Jordan's spirit. They never gave up even after going 2-0 down. Musa Al-Tamaari's goal was well-taken. And they scored in *every* group match—that shows character. For a debutant nation, that's something to build on. Argentina are just too good right now, but Jordan can hold their heads high. 👏
I know everyone is praising Argentina, but I feel the refereeing was a bit harsh on Jordan. That penalty decision after VAR review—did it really warrant a foul? Shoulder-to-shoulder contact no? Anyway, Argentina deserved to win overall. Hope the round of 32 matches are more competitive!
Argentina looking unstoppable. That Lo Celso free-kick was beautiful. Messi coming off the bench and scoring—Scaloni is a genius for managing his minutes. Jordan were brave but outclassed. Big test against Cape Verde though
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.