Lionel Messi came off the bench to make World Cup history as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 to complete a perfect Group J campaign and set up a Round of 32 clash with Cabo Verde.
With Argentina already assured of top spot, Messi was introduced in the 60th minute and scored 10 minutes from time with a trademark free kick.
The goal was his sixth of the tournament and a record 19th at the World Cup. It also made the 39-year-old the first player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches.
Argentina took the lead through Giovani Lo Celso, who curled a free kick into the top corner in the first half.
Lautaro Martínez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after VAR awarded Argentina a penalty when Marcos Senesi was kicked in the head while challenging for the ball.
Jordan pulled one back early in the second half through substitute Mousa Al Tamari, who finished a cross from Ehsan Haddad.
Messi’s late free kick sealed the victory as Argentina finished the group stage with three wins from three matches. The reigning champions will face Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 on July 3 in Miami.
