Lionel Messi steps onto every World Cup pitch now as a moment of pure privilege. At 38 years old in what is likely his last tournament, the greatest player in history is not merely competing—he is delivering a masterclass. Tonight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Argentina concludes its group stage against Jordan in a match that appears foregone on paper. Yet when Messi is involved, no game is ever simply routine.
The match begins at 10 p.m. ET, with Canadian viewers able to watch on TSN and CTV.
Argentina Dominates Group J Ruthlessly
As defending world champions, Argentina has shown no mercy in Group J. They secured a 3-0 victory over Algeria followed by a 2-0 win against Austria. Both matches ended with clean sheets and were controlled from the opening whistle to the final minute. Messi has been the central figure, scoring all five of Argentina’s goals in this tournament. At 38 with 116 international goals, he is not slowing but accelerating.
Argentina has already qualified for the round of 32 as group winners, making this match technically a dead rubber. Coach Lionel Scaloni faces a real dilemma: rest key players for the knockout rounds or let Messi and his teammates add to their historic records.
Jordan’s Historic Debut Ends Here
For Jordan, this match closes a landmark chapter in their football history. Al-Nashama, known as “The Brave Ones,” qualified for their first World Cup by defeating Oman 3-0 in June 2025, sending the entire nation into celebration. They competed with integrity in Group J, scoring twice across two matches, but losses to Austria and Algeria ended their advancement hopes.
Jordan arrives at AT&T Stadium with pride and history as their only stakes. Captain Musa Al-Taamari, who plays for Rennes, will lead the attack one final time. For Jordan, delivering a respectable performance against the reigning champions on the world’s biggest stage is itself a victory.
The Critical Question on Messi
The main talking point before tonight is straightforward: will Scaloni start Messi? With the knockout stage beginning Sunday, Argentina prioritizes freshness and fitness. Their likely round of 32 opponent comes from Group H, which includes Spain, Uruguay, Cape Verde, and Saudi Arabia. Risking Messi’s 38-year-old legs against an eliminated team would be a gamble few coaches would take.
Expectations point to a partial appearance—a start or cameo—giving Messi enough runway to maintain his record-breaking momentum while limiting his minutes. Even at half capacity, he remains the most dangerous player on the field.
Why Canadian Fans Should Watch
Beyond Messi’s spectacle, there is a broader reason to tune in: Argentina could be the team Canada faces deep in this tournament. Observing how Scaloni manages squad rotation, which players look sharp, and how the backline holds against modest opposition provides valuable scouting for what may come later in July.
Then there is the pure theater of it. Messi at a World Cup on a warm Texas night with a sold-out 80,000-seat stadium roaring. Whether he plays 10 minutes or 90, every touch carries the weight of a career that may never be replicated. This is the final group stage match of Lionel Messi’s World Cup journey, and it is worth staying up for.