The defining moment broke loose in the 19th minute of the first half. Midfielder Giovani Lo Celso won a set-piece just outside the Jordanian penalty box and stepped up to take charge of the strike. The Tottenham playmaker whipped a sublime, left-footed curler that sailed directly into the far top corner, leaving Jordan’s goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila rooted to the spot. As the ball rippled the net, broadcast television cameras instantly cut to the Argentina dugout. Fans worldwide were treated to the sight of an ecstatic Messi flashing a massive grin, applauding enthusiastically, and sharing a joyful laugh with the surrounding coaching staff.
