Texas, June 28 -- Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a trademark free-kick as Argentina completed a flawless Group J campaign with a 3-1 victory over Jordan, sealing top spot and a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 here on Sunday.
Argentina dominated the opening half and took the lead in the 19th minute through Giovani Lo Celso, who curled a superb free-kick into the top corner after Jordan conceded a foul just outside the penalty area.
The South American giants doubled their advantage in the 31st minute when Julian Alvarez was brought down inside the box. Lautaro Martinez calmly converted the resulting penalty, giving Argentina a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into the break.
Jordan emerged with greater purpose after halftime ...