India, June 28 -- Argentina are taking on Jordan in their final Group J fixture, a match that carries little significance in terms of their knockout-stage path.

The reigning champions have already secured top spot in the group and are set to face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on Friday, July 3.

However, one major talking point ahead of Saturday's clash has been the absence of captain Lionel Messi from the starting XI. The decision caught many fans by surprise, especially given the 39-year-old's red-hot form in the tournament.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has opted to start Messi on the bench, a move that may initially raise concerns about a possible injury. However, there is little to suggest that fitness is the reason behind th...