World Cup wrap-up: Messi shines as Austria and Algeria end Iran's dream

World Cup wrap-up: Messi shines as Austria and Algeria end Iran's dream
Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their third goal against Jordan, Arlington, Texas, U.S., 27 June 2026.
Reuters

Lionel Messi made World Cup history as Argentina finished top of Group J, while Austria and Algeria both reached the Round of 32 after a dramatic draw that ended Iran's hopes of progressing.

Argentina 3-1 Jordan

Lionel Messi became the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 to finish top of Group J.

Manager Lionel Scaloni made nine changes after the win over Austria, but his side remained in control. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring from a free-kick before Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead from the penalty spot.

Jordan pulled a goal back through Mousa Altamari after the break. Messi then came off the bench and wrapped up the victory in the 80th minute. His free-kick secured another World Cup record and sent a warning to Argentina's next opponents, Cape Verde.

Austria 3-3 Algeria

Marko Arnautovic gave Austria an early lead before Rafik Belghali equalised before half-time. Marcel Sabitzer put Austria back in front soon after the restart, only for Riyad Mahrez to level again.

Mahrez looked to have won it for Algeria in the third minute of added time, but Sasa Kalajdzic struck three minutes later to rescue a point.

The 3-3 draw sent both teams into the Round of 32 and ended Iran's hopes of progressing. Austria will face Spain, while Algeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams and will meet Switzerland.

England 2-0 Panama

England secured top spot in Group L after a 2-0 win over Panama. Jude Bellingham opened the scoring before setting up Harry Kane, whose second-half goal saw him become England's all-time leading World Cup scorer.

The Three Lions will face DR Congo in the Round of 32.

Croatia 2-1 Ghana

Croatia booked their place in the knockout stage after Nikola Vlasic's late header earned a 2-1 victory over Ghana. The win secured second place in Group L, while Ghana also progressed as one of the best third-placed teams and will now meet Colombia.

Portugal 0-0 Colombia

Colombia and Portugal shared the points after an entertaining 0-0 draw that sent both teams into the Round of 32. Colombia finished top of Group K and will play Ghana, while Portugal's reward is a meeting with Croatia.

Congo 3-1 Uzbekistan

DR Congo came from behind to beat Uzbekistan 3-1 and reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. Eldor Shomurodov put Uzbekistan ahead, but Yoane Wissa scored twice either side of Fiston Mayele's goal to complete the comeback. The win secured a Round of 32 tie against England, while Uzbekistan exited the tournament after three straight defeats.

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