Lautaro Martinez opens World Cup account as Nico Paz makes first start for Argentina
Quick summary
Lautaro Martinez scored his first goal of the 2026 World Cup while young midfielder Nico Paz earned his first start for Argentina in a tournament match.
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Attributed to original sourceInter captain Lautaro Martinez is now off the mark at the 2026 World Cup , netting Argentina’s second in an eventual 3-1 win over Jordan in their final group stage match in a game that also brought a first start for Como star Nico Paz.
Lautaro and Paz help Argentina maintain perfect World Cup start Martinez has started all three of Argentina’s group stage matches at the 2026 tournament in North America, but has had to wait for his third outing for his first moment of individual glory, converting a 31st-minute penalty to send his nation 2-0 up on the night.
LAUTARO MARTINEZ – JUNE 27: Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Jordan and Argentina at Dallas Stadium on June 27, 2026 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images) The legendary Lionel Messi is usually Argentina’s designated penalty taker, but he was named among the substitutes named a rotated side having secured their status as winners of Group J before the game against Jordan had even kicked-off.
Still, the diminutive magician came off the bench to net his sixth goal in three appearances at the tournament at the age of 39. His six-goal haul, achieved in the group stage alone, would have been enough for him to claim the Golden Boot in 10 of the last 12 World Cup tournaments.
With no Messi in the starting line-up, there was a first start at the tournament for Nico Paz, who has been the subject of a huge transfer saga back in Europe involving Como, Real Madrid and Inter.
According to reports over the last few days, Real Madrid will activate their €9m buy-back option for the 21-year-old, and Como will then spend a further €60m to sign him back immediately.
Read more: Why Como are able to spend €60m on Nico Paz despite expected FFP breach
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What happened
Argentina saw two notable developments in their 2026 World Cup campaign: striker Lautaro Martinez found the net for the first time in the tournament, and emerging talent Nico Paz was handed his first start. Martinez's goal boosts his confidence and reinforces his role as a key attacking option for the Albiceleste. Paz's inclusion signals growing trust in the younger generation within the squad, providing fresh energy in the midfield or attack.
Chance analysis
Lautaro Martinez getting on the scoresheet is a significant positive for Argentina's attacking depth heading into the knockout stages, potentially easing pressure on other forwards. Nico Paz's first start indicates the coaching staff is expanding their rotation options, which adds tactical flexibility but also raises questions about the preferred starting XI going forward. Both developments suggest Argentina's squad is building momentum and depth at the World Cup.
Argentina receive a positive boost in attacking depth and squad confidence, with Martinez finding form and Paz breaking into the starting lineup.
Argentina's attacking options are deepening with Martinez scoring and Paz emerging, which should improve their goal threat in upcoming matches.