Lionel Messi and Argentina conclude their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J campaign against Jordan at AT&T; Stadium — and, given the circumstances, the encounter has all the makings of a record-breaking occasion for the Argentina captain.

Messi's extraordinary run

At 38, Messi equalled the all-time World Cup scoring record, then broke it, then pushed it further still. Now 39, he arrives for this final group fixture having already rewritten history — and with Kylian Mbappe lurking in the chase for that same mark, there is every incentive for him to keep scoring.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has not been beaten once in the tournament so far, and coach Lionel Scaloni will demand that defensive solidity continues even with first place in Group J already secured.

Jordan's debut comes to a close

Jordan made their World Cup debut at this tournament, and their campaign ends here regardless of the result. They have conceded five goals across two matches, yet they have not been entirely without honour — scoring twice, which is something many first-timers fail to manage.

Ali Olwan secured his place in Jordanian football history with an equaliser against Austria, while Nizar Al-Rashdan put his side in front during their match against Algeria. Those moments will live long in the memory for a young squad — only eight outfield players in Jordan's group are aged 30 or above.

Jamal Sellami's side arrive at AT&T; Stadium knowing the stands will be filled largely by Messi supporters rather than fans of either competing nation. Facing an Argentina side in such fine form is a daunting final chapter to a maiden tournament, but Jordan will take confidence from the fact they qualified for this edition relatively comfortably and will hope this experience accelerates a return in four years.

What Argentina need

A win here does not automatically make Argentina favourites to become only the third nation to retain the World Cup. But Messi continuing his extraordinary scoring streak very well might shift the odds in their direction.

Jordan's defence will need to produce something remarkable to keep Martinez's record intact — and even more so to trouble Argentina at the other end. All signs point toward a comfortable afternoon for the world champions.