Argentina are set to face Jordan in their final Group J fixture, but one major talking point ahead of the match has been the absence of captain Lionel Messi from the starting XI.
The decision caught many fans by surprise, especially given the 39-year-old's red-hot form in the tournament.
However, there is little to suggest that fitness is the reason behind the decision, and instead, it appears to be more about squad rotation and managing Messi's workload ahead of the knockout rounds.
Messi has been in marvelous form so far, scoring a hat trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria, and currently leads the Golden Boot race with five goals.
The Argentina captain's absence from the starting lineup against Jordan is likely a strategic move by coach Lionel Scaloni, who may introduce him later in the match.
