Messi to start on bench as Argentina rests stars before knockout stage

Top spot in Group J is already guaranteed thanks to victories over Algeria (3-0) and Austria (2-0), games in which Messi produced two memorable displays.

The 39-year-old captain will start among the substitutes against eliminated Jordan

When Argentina takes the field for its final Group Stage game against Jordan on Saturday night, Lionel Messi likely won't be on the field.

Argentina has already mathematically secure in the Round of 32 following consecutive wins over Algeria and Austria.