Every Lionel Messi World Cup appearance now feels like a rare privilege. At 38, in what is almost certainly his final tournament, the greatest player in history is not merely participating—he is delivering a masterclass. Tonight at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Argentina closes out their group stage against Jordan. While the matchup seems predetermined on paper, Messi’s presence ensures no game is ever just a formality.
The match begins at 10 p.m. ET. Canadians can watch on TSN and CTV.
Argentina Dominates Group J
As defending world champions, Argentina has been ruthless in Group J. They opened with a 3-0 victory over Algeria, followed by a 2-0 win against Austria. Both matches featured clean sheets and total control from start to finish. Messi has been the story, scoring all five of Argentina’s goals so far. At 38, with 116 international goals, he is not slowing down; he is accelerating.
Argentina has already secured a spot in the round of 32 as group winners, making tonight technically a dead rubber. However, coach Lionel Scaloni faces a real dilemma: rest key players for the knockout rounds or let Messi and his teammates add to their historic totals.
Jordan’s Historic Chapter Ends
For Jordan, this match marks the close of a landmark chapter. Al-Nashama, meaning “The Brave Ones,” qualified for their first-ever World Cup by beating Oman 3-0 in June 2025, a result that sent the nation into raptures. They competed honestly in Group J, scoring twice across two matches, but defeats to Austria and Algeria ended their advancement hopes.
They arrive at AT&T Stadium with only pride and history on the line. Captain Musa Al-Taamari, who plays club soccer at Rennes, will lead the attack one final time. For Jordan, a respectable performance against the reigning champions on the world’s biggest stage is itself a victory.
Key Match Questions
The main talking point is simple: will Scaloni start Messi? With the knockout stage beginning Sunday, Argentina prioritizes freshness. Their potential 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 side would be a gamble few coaches take.
Expectations suggest a partial appearance—either a start or a cameo—giving Messi enough runway to maintain his record-breaking momentum while limiting his minutes. Even at half throttle, he remains the most dangerous player on the pitch.
- Match time: 10 p.m. ET
- Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
- TV: TSN and CTV for Canadians
- Key focus: Messi’s potential playing time
Why Canada Should Tune In
Beyond the Messi spectacle, there is a broader reason to watch. Argentina is the team Canada could eventually face deep in this tournament. Observing how Scaloni manages squad rotation, which players look sharp, and how the backline holds up against modest opposition offers valuable scouting for what may come later in July.
Then comes the pure theatre. Messi at a World Cup on a warm Texas night inside a sold-out 80,000-seat stadium is unforgettable. Whether he plays 10 minutes or 90, every touch carries the weight of a career that may never be replicated. This is the last group stage match of Lionel Messi’s World Cup life. It is worth staying up for.