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Messi Free-Kick Powers Argentina Past Jordan, Secures Round-of-32

6/28/2026

40 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Messi Secures Win

Lionel Messi entered with about 30 minutes left and scored a free-kick, giving Argentina a 3-1 win over Jordan in Arlington, Texas.
The win secured Argentina’s round-of-32 spot, set a July 3 knockout against Cape Verde in Miami, and kept Messi atop the Golden Boot race as first player to score in seven World Cup matches.
Giovanni Lo Celso and Lautaro Martínez each added a goal, drawing 70,649 spectators.

Summary

Argentina Clinches Group

Argentina clinched Group J while Jordan was eliminated, making the match a dead rubber.
Argentina is -800, Jordan +1800, draw +800, the over/under is 3.5 goals and Argentina’s -1.5 spread is -250.
The game airs on Fox at 7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET and streams free for five days on DirecTV, Fubo, Sling or Hulu + Live TV.
The match is at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, renamed Dallas Stadium for the tournament.

History

Historical Context

In 1986 Mexico hosted the 13th World Cup, where Argentina, led by Diego Maradona, claimed their second title with a 3-2 final win over West Germany at Estadio Azteca (attendance 114,600). The tournament featured the “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” against England. In 2024, Messi’s free-kick at AT&T Stadium echoed Maradona’s impact, highlighting Argentina’s enduring World Cup strength.

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Messi Secures Win

Lionel Messi entered with about 30 minutes left and scored a free-kick, giving Argentina a 3-1 win over Jordan in Arlington, Texas.
The win secured Argentina’s round-of-32 spot, set a July 3 knockout against Cape Verde in Miami, and kept Messi atop the Golden Boot race as first player to score in seven World Cup matches.
Giovanni Lo Celso and Lautaro Martínez each added a goal, drawing 70,649 spectators.

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