Argentina has punched their ticket to the Round of 32 in the World Cup. If Algeria defeats Jordan, Argentina will officially win Group J.
Regardless, Argentina stands a good chance of winning the group thanks to the team’s six points. Argentina’s next game is the final Group Stage match versus Jordan on Saturday, June 27 at 10 p.m. Eastern.
Yet, the game may not impact Argentina’s standings. Argentina’s schedule for the next round has not been set but let’s examine the potential opponents.
The Athletic’s computer model gives Argentina a 99% chance to win Group J. This would mean Argentina’s Round of 32 match would be on July 3 in Miami.
The game would take place at Hard Rock Stadium (known as Miami Stadium during the World Cup) at 6 p.m. Eastern on Fox.
Let’s take a look at Argentina’s potential opponents.
Argentina’s Round of 32 Opponent Will Likely Be Either Cape Verde or Saudi Arabia
Argentina’s opponent would be the Group H runner-up. Fan favorite Cape Verde has a 55% of facing Argentina in the Round of 32, per The Athletic.
Saudi Arabia has a 29% chance of taking on Lionel Messi in the next round, while Spain has a slim 10% chance of facing Argentina in what would be a heavyweight clash.
Messi Breaks World Cup Record for Most Goals With 18
Messi made history as the World Cup all-time leading goal scorer and added an extra score for good measure. The Argentina star scored a second goal in stoppage time to bring his number to 18 in the World Cup.
Now, Messi’s Argentina squad must play their final Group Stage match against Jordan. Yet, the pressure is off with Argentina already punching their ticket to the next round.
Argentina World Cup Schedule: Who & When Does Messi Play in Next Round?