Messi reaches 19 goals in FIFA World Cups with great free kick for Argentina in clash with Jordan

Lionel Messi once again rewrote FIFA World Cup history by finding the net for the 19th time in the tournament, solidifying his position as the greatest goalscorer of all time. The great goal, scored from a free kick, took place during Argentina’s ongoing match against Jordan for the 2026 World Cup. In the 34th minute of the second half, the Argentine star scored his team’s third goal, which maintains a 3-1 lead over the opponent, in a vibrant game that has not yet come to an end.

Messi’s decisive move, a low and unstoppable shot into goalkeeper Abulaila’s right corner, not only extended Argentina’s lead on the scoreboard but also raised the level of their own record. The goal, which occurred approximately 80 minutes into the game, came at a crucial moment in the match, reaffirming the number 10’s ability to decide clashes and keep the South American team on the path to victory in the group stage of the competition. The crowd in Dallas and the fans following the minute-by-minute coverage of Mix Vale witnessed yet another legendary chapter in the star’s career.

Argentine dominance in the first half and the opening of the scoring

The Argentine team, even with a formation that included some reserves, demonstrated absolute control during the first stage of the confrontation. The team led by Lionel Scaloni imposed its rhythm with intense possession of the ball and a series of exchanges of passes that disorganized Jordan’s defense. The first two goals, however, came from set pieces, highlighting the team’s efficiency in these crucial situations. This strategy allowed Argentina to build a comfortable lead before the break.

In the 18th minute of the first half, Giovani Lo Celso was responsible for opening the scoring with a beautiful free kick from the edge of the area. Shortly after, in the 32nd minute, Argentina expanded. After a penalty was awarded to defender Senesi, who was hit in the face by Al-Rashdan, Lautaro Martínez converted the maximum penalty with no chance for the Jordanian goalkeeper. These set pieces were essential for the Albiceleste team to consolidate their initial superiority.

Jordan’s reaction and Messi’s entry to change the game

The second half started with Jordan looking for a reaction and surprising Argentina with their first goal. In the 9th minute of the final stage, Al-Tamari took advantage of Haddad’s low cross from the right and finished first time, without Emiliano Martínez being able to save. The goal gave new impetus to the Jordanian team, which began to close in on defense and try to direct counterattacks, testing the Argentine rearguard on several occasions.

Given the new dynamics of the match, expectations for Lionel Messi’s entry grew in the stands, and the star was soon called into action. In the 14th minute of the second half, Messi entered the field, replacing Lautaro Martínez. His presence on the field reinvigorated the Argentine attack, which sought to regain full control of the game and stop Jordan’s momentum. Other tactical changes were also made by Scaloni to adjust the team.

Crucial moments: match timeline in progress

The clash between Jordan and Argentina in the 2026 World Cup continues to be electrifying, with important plays occurring until the 43rd minute of the second half. Follow the main moments:

• Interval:Argentina dominated the first half, with goals from Lo Celso (18′ 1T) and Lautaro Martínez (32′ 1T), closing the stage with 2-0 on the scoreboard.
• 02′ 2T:Lo Celso completes the goal after Lautaro Martínez dribbles at the goalkeeper, but the shot is canceled due to the attacker being offside.
• 07′ 2T:Lautaro Martínez risks a shot from the edge of the area, and the ball, with great danger, hits the crossbar before leaving.
• 09′ 2Q:Jordan goal! Al-Tamari receives a low cross and hits it first time, with no chance for the Argentine goalkeeper, making it 2-1.
• 14′ 2T:Messi enters Argentina, replacing Lautaro Martínez, and Thiago Almada replaces Lo Celso.
• 22′ 2T:The match is interrupted for a hydration break for the teams, due to the weather conditions in Dallas.
• 34′ 2T:GOOOOOOOOL FROM ARGENTINA! Lionel Messi takes a free kick into the right corner of goalkeeper Abulaila and scores his 19th goal in FIFA World Cups, extending the score to 3-1.
• 40′ 2T:Flaco López receives a pass from Messi on the left of the area, tries a cross shot, but the defense deflects it for a corner.

Messi’s legacy at the FIFA World Cups

Messi’s goal against Jordan is not just another number; it represents the consolidation of a legend on the biggest stage in world football. With 19 goals, the Argentine captain surpasses historical marks and sets a new standard for future top scorers. Since his World Cup debut, Messi has been an unstoppable force, combining individual genius with an unparalleled ability to lead his team. His goals are not only beautiful, but often decisive, marking unforgettable moments in different editions of the tournament.

This feat is even more remarkable considering Messi’s consistency throughout multiple editions of World Cups. He scored in the last four games of the 2022 World Cup and in the first three of this 2026 edition, making it seven consecutive matches finding the net – an impressive record that demonstrates his unparalleled longevity and excellence in the sport. His ability to reinvent himself and maintain a high level is a testament to his professionalism and dedication, inspiring generations of fans and players.

Perspectives for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup

With the score 3-1 and the game still in progress, Argentina reaffirms its strength and ambition in this 2026 World Cup. The team demonstrates that it not only has Messi’s genius, but also a solid squad capable of controlling the match and overcoming challenges posed by the opponents. The performance in the first half, even with some changes, and the quick response to the Jordanian goal in the second half indicate that Albiceleste is focused on its objective.

The leadership of Group J, with seven points in three games before this clash, shows the team’s consistency in the initial phase of the tournament. The road to the knockout stages is long, but each victory and each record broken by Messi contributes to the team’s morale and the fans’ confidence. The game against Jordan serves as another step in the quest for the much-coveted world title, with the team showing that it is prepared for the challenges to come.