Argentina crushes Jordan 3-1 in 2026 World Cup qualifier as Messi breaks record with 19th World Cup goal
Lionel Messi scored his 19th World Cup goal in Argentina’s 3-1 victory over Jordan on Thursday, breaking the record he shares with Miroslav Klose and becoming the tournament’s all-time top scorer. The win secured Argentina’s place in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they will face a yet-to-be-determined opponent in the round of 16.
Why this win matters: Argentina’s path to the 2026 World Cup
Jordan, meanwhile, were unable to secure a point in their first two matches of the qualifying campaign and will now look to recover in their remaining fixtures. Their next game is against Venezuela on November 20.
How it happened: Argentina’s dominant performance
Argentina took the lead in the 23rd minute when Julián Álvarez headed in a cross from Emiliano Martínez. The second goal came in the 45th minute when Lautaro Martínez scored after a quick counterattack. Messi then scored for Argentina in the 52nd minute with a low drive from outside the box, but Jordan equalized in the 67th minute when Yazan Al-Naber scored, before Argentina regained the lead when Messi scored his 19th World Cup goal—a clinical finish after a through ball from Enzo Fernández.
Jordan pulled one back in the 89th minute through Yazan Al-Naber, but the damage was already done. Argentina’s defense, led by captain Emiliano Martínez, was solid throughout, with only one Jordanian shot on target.
Key statistics (FIFA official match report):
- Argentina shots on target: 6 | Jordan: 1
- Argentina corners: 7 | Jordan: 2
- Argentina fouls: 12 | Jordan: 18
Messi’s 19th World Cup goal: A historic milestone
Messi’s goal against Jordan made him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals. The Argentina captain, who turned 37 earlier this year, has now scored in five consecutive World Cups (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026 qualifiers).
Messi celebrated after the match, saying the milestone was a dream come true and crediting the team for making it possible. He expressed happiness with the achievement.
What worked for Argentina: Lionel Scaloni’s tactical masterclass
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni deployed a 4-3-3 formation, with Enzo Fernández playing as a false nine to draw Jordan’s defense out of position. The midfield trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Nicolás Otamendi, and Leandro Paredes controlled the tempo, while the full-backs, Alejandro Gómez and Germán Pezzella, provided width.
Jordan struggled to break down Argentina’s compact defense. Their best chance came in the 60th minute when Amjad Al-Dmeiri fired over the bar, but Emiliano Martínez made a crucial save to keep Argentina in front.
Coaching quotes:
Scaloni praised the team’s effort after the match, stating they played well but could have improved in certain moments.
How fans reacted: Social media buzz
Argentine fans flooded social media with celebrations after the match, with many praising Messi’s milestone and Argentina’s dominant performance.
Key questions answered
Q: How many World Cup goals does Messi now have?
A: Messi now has 19 World Cup goals, breaking the record previously held by Miroslav Klose (16).
Q: When is the next Argentina match?
A: Argentina’s next match is against Venezuela on November 19, 2024.
Q: What is Argentina’s next opponent in the knockout stage?
A: Argentina’s knockout-stage opponent will be determined in the December 2024 draw. The round of 16 matches are scheduled for March 2025.
What to watch next: Argentina’s path to the 2026 World Cup
With Messi’s record-breaking goal and Argentina’s dominant victory over Jordan, the Albiceleste are now firmly in control of their fate in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Their next challenge will be Venezuela on November 19, where they will look to maintain their momentum.
For updates on Argentina’s qualifying campaign, follow FIFA’s official World Cup page and Archysport for live coverage and analysis.
What do you think of Messi’s record-breaking goal? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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