Lionel Messi scripted history on Sunday at Arlington, extending his FIFA World Cup scoring streak to a record seven consecutive matches as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 in their final Group J fixture. Coming off the bench, the 39-year-old netted Argentina's third goal to push his all-time World Cup tally to 19, surpassing Just Fontaine and Jairzinho for the longest scoring run in World Cup history.

A Record That Rewrites History

Messi's substitute appearance was enough to leave a defining mark on the tournament. His strike — his 19th World Cup goal — eclipsed the records previously held by French legend Just Fontaine and Brazil's Jairzinho, both of whom had scored in six consecutive World Cup matches. The goal confirmed that, even at 39, Messi continues to operate at a level that defies footballing convention.

The record arrives at a particularly poignant moment: Messi celebrated his 39th birthday earlier this week, and the milestone goal served as a fitting self-gift on the grandest stage.

What Simeone Said

Argentina winger Giuliano Simeone was effusive in his praise after the final whistle. 'There's not much left to say about him. He really is the best in the world, the best of all time, and he keeps proving it,' Simeone said after the match.

'It's incredible. I see it day to day: how he trains, how he takes care of himself. Everything he does is impressive, and he has a special kind of magic,' he added. Simeone's words carry particular weight given his daily vantage point in training — a perspective that goes beyond statistics to the discipline and dedication that underpin Messi's longevity.

Nico Paz Adds His Voice

Young Argentina midfielder Nico Paz, who is 18 years younger than Messi, also reflected on playing alongside the captain. 'We already know what Messi is like. In the end, he's the best in history. He always surprises you with something new. At his age, he still has something new to show, and today he did it again. He came on for a while, we'd been missing that, and I'm very happy for him,' the Como midfielder said. The 18-year age gap between the two teammates underlines just how far Messi's career has stretched across generations of Argentine football.

Argentina Top Group J, Eye Cabo Verde Clash

The victory sealed a perfect group-stage campaign for the world champions — three wins from three matches — as they finished comfortably atop Group J. Jordan's Mousa Al Tamari scored the only goal Argentina conceded in the group stage, though Simeone remained broadly satisfied. 'I'm very pleased with the result and with how it came about. I'm also happy with the team's work. I think overall we played a good match. It's a shame about the goal we conceded, of course, but I'm happy with the win,' he said.

Argentina now advance to the round of 32, where they will face Cabo Verde in a knockout fixture on 4 July. With Messi in this form, the world champions will be difficult to stop.