India, June 28 -- The defending champions head into their final group-stage fixture of the World Cup in strong form, as they face Jordan on Saturday, June 27.

From a tournament standpoint, the match is largely a formality, with the Blue and Whites already assured of their place in the knockout rounds, where they are set to meet Cape Verde.

Lionel Messi's side is guaranteed to finish top of the group regardless of the result at Dallas Stadium in Texas, allowing them to approach the game with little pressure ahead of the next stage.

However, in what may be disappointing news for Argentina and Messi fans, the 39-year-old is not included in the starting XI against Jordan.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that La Pulga will begin th...