Argentina have already secured first place in Group J, but Lionel Scaloni will still expect another polished display when the reigning world champions face Jordan in their final group match on Saturday.

Jordan’s World Cup debut has ended in elimination, yet the tournament newcomers have shown enough attacking intent to suggest they will not simply sit back and accept their fate in Dallas.

Argentina chasing rhythm rather than points

Qualification is already in the bag, but Argentina have little reason to ease off. Scaloni’s side have looked increasingly comfortable as the tournament has progressed, brushing aside Algeria before overcoming Austria through another decisive Lionel Messi performance. The captain’s brace against the Austrians not only secured victory but also saw him become the outright leading goalscorer in World Cup history, adding another chapter to an extraordinary international career.

Perhaps more encouraging for Argentina than Messi’s latest milestone is the balance throughout the side. They have won nine successive matches in all competitions, conceded only once during that run and continue to look organised whether dominating possession or defending without the ball.

Rotation is expected with the knockout rounds around the corner, but Argentina possess enough depth to maintain their level. Cristian Romero’s knee problem could open the door for Marcos Senesi or Nicolas Otamendi, while several midfield and attacking positions may also be refreshed to keep key players sharp without overloading them.

Jordan seeking one final statement

Results have not gone Jordan’s way, yet their first World Cup campaign has not been without positives. They pushed Austria for long periods before fading late and were within touching distance of a historic first World Cup point against Algeria until the final stages. Those performances have demonstrated that Jamal Sellami’s side belong on this stage, even if defensive lapses have ultimately proved costly.

Set-pieces have been a recurring weakness throughout the tournament, with three goals conceded from corners already. Against an Argentina side renowned for intelligent movement and high-quality delivery, that is an area the Jordanians simply cannot afford to neglect.

Going forward, there is still enough talent to ask occasional questions. Ali Olwan has carried much of the attacking responsibility after opening Jordan’s World Cup account, while Musa Al-Taamari remains the team’s most dangerous outlet in transition.

Team news

Jordan have no fresh injury concerns and are expected to field a similar side to the one that ran Algeria close. Olwan should continue as the central striker, supported by Al-Taamari, while captain Ihsan Haddad is set to make his 95th international appearance.

Argentina may rotate after already securing top spot. Romero is unlikely to feature because of a knee issue, while Senesi, Otamendi and Lisandro Martinez are competing for places in central defence. Messi could still start before making way early if the game develops as expected.

Verdict

Jordan have competed with admirable spirit throughout their first World Cup, but this represents their toughest assignment yet.

Even with changes to the starting XI, Argentina possess quality across every area of the pitch and arrive carrying the confidence of a team that looks increasingly comfortable defending its title. Jordan may enjoy moments on the counter, but over 90 minutes it is difficult to see them containing the world champions.

Tip: Argentina to win.