Lionel Messi creates history, becomes first player ever to ...

Lionel Messi made history once again after becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches during Argentina's 3-1 win over Jordan on Saturday.The Argentina captain came off the bench in the second half and scored from a free-kick in the 80th minute. After being fouled just outside the penalty area, Messi struck a low effort that went through two Jordan defenders and into the left corner of the net. The goal was his 19th in World Cup history, extending his record as the competition's all-time leading men's scorer.Another milestone for Lionel MessiIt was also the 72nd free-kick goal of Messi's career and his 12th for Argentina from a direct free-kick.The 39-year-old has now scored 123 international goals in 202 appearances for Argentina. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, with 145 international goals, has scored more in men's international football.Before this match, Messi shared the record of scoring in six straight World Cup games with France's Just Fontaine and Brazil legend Jairzinho. His goal against Jordan made him the first player to reach seven in a row.Rested before making an impactMessi was left out of the starting XI as Argentina had already secured first place in Group J, while Jordan had already been eliminated from the tournament.He was introduced in the 60th minute in place of Lautaro Martinez, who had earlier scored from the penalty spot in the first half.Messi's late goal helped Argentina complete a 3-1 victory and finish the group stage with maximum points before the knockout rounds.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.