Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a stunning free-kick, his 19th World Cup goal, as Argentina beat Jordan in a friendly. The 39-year-old entered the match with the score already 2-0 and quickly made his mark, curling a 22-yard free-kick over the wall and into the net. It was his sixth goal in three games and his first since turning 39. The goal capped a comfortable win for Argentina, who had already secured victory before Messi's arrival.
Messi's impact from the bench
The vast majority of the crowd were focused on Messi's potential appearance, with the play before his introduction feeling like a mere prelude. There was no risk or edge to the encounter, as both sides knew their fates. Messi's first free-kick was wayward, but when he won a second opportunity, the outcome seemed predestined. The ball whipped around the wall with an inordinate amount of bend, finishing in an almost central position, leaving goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila helpless.
Milestones continue
Messi's goal added to his remarkable World Cup tally: 19 goals in total, with six in his last three games. He continues to set records, and fans can expect more milestones as he shows no signs of slowing down. The win over Jordan was a routine friendly, but Messi's moment of magic made it memorable.
