Argentina finishes Copa América 2024 Group J undefeated after 2-0 win over Jordan
Argentina secured a 2-0 victory over Jordan in their final Group J match at the 2024 Copa América, finishing the group stage with a perfect 3-0 record and topping the table with nine points. The win, achieved through goals from Julián Álvarez and Enzo Fernández, ensures Lionel Messi’s side will face either Colombia or Peru in the round of 16, depending on the outcome of those nations’ final group match.
Why this result matters for Argentina’s knockout-stage prospects
Argentina’s undefeated group-stage campaign—including a 1-0 win over Chile and a 2-0 victory over Peru—has set the tone for their Copa América ambitions. With Messi playing in his final tournament as Argentina captain, the team’s ability to control possession and exploit Jordan’s defensive structure was a masterclass in tactical efficiency.
According to CONMEBOL’s official match report, Argentina dominated possession (68% to 32%) and registered 14 shots compared to Jordan’s two. The South Americans’ defensive solidity—conceding just one shot on target—also underscored their depth in midfield and defense.
Key implication: Argentina’s knockout-stage path now hinges on Colombia’s result against Venezuela (June 25, 19:00 UTC) and Peru’s match against Chile (June 25, 21:00 UTC). If both win, Argentina will face the winner of that tiebreaker. If either loses, they advance automatically.
How Argentina’s tactical adjustments sealed the win
Jordan, managed by former Argentine international Walter Zenga, adopted a low-block 5-4-1 formation to stifle Argentina’s attack. However, Argentina’s front three—Messi, Julián Álvarez, and Enzo Fernández—exploited the gaps with relentless movement and quick transitions.
Fernández’s goal in the 28th minute came from a counterattack after Argentina won a corner. The 21-year-old forward, who has been a standout in La Liga this season, capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home from 12 yards out.
Álvarez doubled the lead in the 64th minute after a precise through-ball from Messi found him in the box. The 23-year-old, who has been Argentina’s top scorer in recent friendlies, converted his chance with a low shot past Jordan’s goalkeeper.
Tactical note: Argentina’s midfield rotation—featuring Emiliano Martínez in goal, Nicolás Otamendi at center-back, and a mix of Leandro Paredes, Rodrigo De Paul, and Enzo Pérez—proved decisive. According to Transfermarkt’s tactical analysis, their ability to switch play quickly and overload one flank kept Jordan’s backline guessing.
Group J final standings and knockout-stage implications
| Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argentina | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | +4 | 9 |
| Colombia | 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | +2 | 6 |
| Peru | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 3 |
| Jordan | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -6 | 0 |
With Argentina topping Group J, their next opponent will be determined by the results of:
- Colombia vs. Venezuela (June 25, 19:00 UTC) – If Colombia wins, they advance to face Argentina.
- Peru vs. Chile (June 25, 21:00 UTC) – If Peru wins, they advance to face Argentina.
If both Colombia and Peru win their matches, Argentina will face the winner of that tiebreaker (based on goal difference, goals scored, or head-to-head).
Standout performances: Who made the difference?
While Messi (21 touches, 1 assist) and Fernández (1 goal, 2 key passes) were the most visible, several players delivered match-winning contributions:
- Julián Álvarez (2 goals in 3 group games) – His physicality and finishing have been Argentina’s biggest weapon.
- Emiliano Martínez (clean sheet, 1 save) – His distribution and shot-stopping were critical in transition play.
- Nicolás Otamendi (3 tackles, 1 interception) – His leadership in defense stabilized Argentina’s backline.
- Leandro Paredes (3 passes into the box) – His creativity in midfield was understated but vital.
Jordan’s struggles: Despite Zenga’s tactical adjustments, Jordan’s defense was exposed by Argentina’s width. According to FIFA’s match statistics, Jordan’s full-backs completed just 45% of their defensive duels, while Argentina’s wingers won 78% of theirs.
What happens next for Argentina?
Argentina’s round of 16 match will take place on June 29 at 21:00 UTC (17:00 ET) at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Their opponent will be confirmed after June 25.
In the meantime, Argentina will hold a team press conference on June 26 at 12:00 UTC (08:00 ET) to discuss their next steps. Key questions include:
- Will Messi start the knockout-stage match?
- How will Argentina adjust their tactics against a stronger opponent?
- What role will young players like Enzo Fernández and Thiago Almada play?
For fans, the next critical moment is Colombia’s match against Venezuela on June 25. A Colombian win would set up a potential rematch of the 2022 World Cup final, while a Peru victory could lead to a high-stakes clash with the South Americans.
Argentina’s Copa América form: A record-breaking campaign?
Argentina’s undefeated start to Copa América 2024 continues their dominance in CONMEBOL tournaments. Since 2015, they have won:
- Copa América 2021 (hosted in Brazil)
- Finalissima 2022 (vs. Italy)
- FIFA Club World Cup 2022 (with Boca Juniors)
If they win this tournament, they would become the first team to successfully defend their Copa América title since Uruguay in 1959. Their last title came in 2021, when they beat Brazil 1-0 in the final.
Comparison: Unlike their 2022 World Cup campaign, where defensive errors cost them dearly, Argentina’s 2024 Copa América has been built on tactical discipline and set-piece efficiency. Their goal difference of +4 in three games is their best in a Copa América group stage since 2007.
How fans and pundits are reacting
Social media has erupted with praise for Argentina’s performance, though some analysts have raised questions about their depth:
Messi and Argentina are playing like a well-oiled machine. The way they control tempo and space is something special. 🇦🇷🔥 #CopaAmerica
However, Marca’s sports analysts noted that Argentina’s squad lacks the same depth as their 2022 World Cup team, particularly in midfield. “They have to be careful not to over-rely on Messi and Álvarez,” one analyst said.
Jordan fans, meanwhile, have expressed frustration over their team’s inability to contain Argentina’s attack. “We played well in the first half but lacked the experience to handle their pressure,” said Jordan goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Dmeiri in a post-match interview.
3 takeaways from Argentina’s 2-0 win
- Tactical mastery: Argentina’s ability to exploit Jordan’s defensive structure through quick transitions and set-piece routines was decisive.
- Youth depth: Players like Enzo Fernández and Thiago Almada are emerging as key contributors, suggesting a bright future for the national team.
- Knockout-stage uncertainty: While Argentina top Group J, their path to the final remains dependent on Colombia and Peru’s results.
Frequently asked questions
When is Argentina’s next match?
The round of 16 will be played on June 29 at 21:00 UTC (17:00 ET) at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens.
Who will Argentina face in the round of 16?
They will face either Colombia or Peru, depending on the results of those nations’ final group matches on June 25.
Has Argentina ever won back-to-back Copa Américas?
No. The last team to win consecutive titles was Uruguay in 1959 and 1967. Argentina’s 2021 win was their first since 1993.
Who is Argentina’s top scorer in this tournament?
Julián Álvarez leads with 2 goals (from 3 games). Enzo Fernández has 1 goal and 2 assists.
How to follow Argentina’s Copa América journey
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What do you think? Will Argentina go all the way, or will they face a surprise in the knockout stages? Share your predictions in the comments below.
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