Lionel Messi, three days past his 39th birthday, came off the bench during Argentina’s 3-1 group-stage victory over Jordan and did what he’s been doing for two decades: something no one else has ever done. His free kick goal on June 27, 2026, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, made him the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.
The goal was his sixth of the 2026 tournament and his 19th in World Cup competition overall.
The record that seemed untouchable
The previous record for consecutive World Cup matches with a goal belonged to two legends: Just Fontaine and Jairzinho, each of whom managed six straight. Those streaks were set in 1958 and 1970, respectively, which means this particular record stood for over half a century.
Messi didn’t just match it. He broke it as a substitute. In a group-stage match. At 39 years old.
