Argentina concluded the group stage of the 2026 World Cup in commanding fashion, securing a 3-1 victory over Jordan on Saturday at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This win ensures Argentina finishes at the top of Group J, having amassed a perfect nine points from three matches.
The match showcased Argentina's dominance from the outset. Giovani Lo Celso struck first, finding the net in the 19th minute with a field shot. Lautaro Martínez then doubled the lead with a penalty kick in the 31st minute, giving Argentina a comfortable 2-0 advantage by halftime.
In the second half, Jordan showed resilience thanks to strategic substitutions. Mousa Tamari, who entered the game at the 46th minute, scored in the 55th minute to narrow the deficit to 2-1, reviving Jordan's hopes.
Argentina's response was quick and decisive from the bench. In the 60th minute, the coach made three simultaneous substitutions, including the introduction of Lionel Messi. The captain wasted no time, sealing the deal with a goal in the 80th minute, marking his sixth goal of this World Cup.
The statistics highlighted Argentina's control throughout the match: 73% possession, 12 shots compared to Jordan's five, four shots on target against one, and six corners to one. Jordan received two yellow cards—Abu Taha in the 17th minute and Al Arab in the 64th—while Argentina remained card-free.
With this result, Argentina concludes Group J of the 2026 World Cup with nine points, eight goals scored, and only one conceded, resulting in a +7 goal difference that positions them as the most formidable team of the group stage.
Jordan, already eliminated before the match, exits the tournament with three losses, zero points, and a goal difference of -5.
In the other match of the day, Austria and Algeria ended in a 3-3 draw, leaving both teams with four points each, competing for the group's runner-up spot. Algeria still has a chance to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Messi has now amassed six goals in this World Cup, following a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria, making him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals.
Argentina’s next challenge is already set for the round of 16, where they will face Cape Verde on July 3 at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
Understanding Argentina's World Cup Performance
How did Argentina perform in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina dominated Group J by winning all three matches, securing nine points, and finishing with a goal difference of +7.
Who were the standout players for Argentina in their match against Jordan?
Giovani Lo Celso, Lautaro Martínez, and Lionel Messi were pivotal, each contributing to the goals that led to Argentina's 3-1 victory over Jordan.
What are Argentina's prospects in the knockout stage?
Argentina will face Cape Verde in the round of 16, and given their strong group stage performance, they are expected to advance further in the tournament.