World Cup 2026: Scaloni to Bench Messi Against Jordan as Argentina Eye Knockout Stage

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will start on the bench when the reigning world champions face Jordan in their final Group J match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Scaloni announced the decision after Argentina secured qualification for the Round of 32 with consecutive victories over Algeria and Austria, ensuring their place in the knockout stage with a game to spare.

The coach explained that resting Messi is part of his plans to keep the squad fresh ahead of the more demanding knockout rounds, where Argentina will continue their title defence.

Messi has been instrumental in Argentina’s impressive campaign, scoring all five of the team’s goals in their opening two matches.

The Inter Miami forward has once again demonstrated his importance to the national team, maintaining his outstanding goalscoring form despite approaching the latter stages of his illustrious career.

However, with qualification already guaranteed, Scaloni believes it is the right moment to rotate his squad while preserving the team’s identity and style of play.

“The hope is that the team will play the same way. That’s what we’re going to try to do,” Scaloni said while previewing the encounter.

He also warned his players against underestimating Jordan despite Argentina’s qualification.

“Jordan is a good opponent, and we’re not taking anything for granted,” he said.

“We’ll try to tweak some aspects of the last match, but with the same intention of controlling the ball and dominating the opponent.”

Scaloni’s decision is expected to provide opportunities for several fringe players seeking valuable minutes before the knockout rounds begin.

The Argentina manager has consistently emphasised the importance of squad depth throughout the tournament, insisting every player must be ready to contribute whenever called upon.

Although Messi is expected to be rested, Argentina will still aim to finish the group stage with a perfect record and maintain momentum heading into the Round of 32.

The six-time world champions have looked dominant in both victories, combining disciplined defending with an effective attacking approach led by Messi.

Supporters will now be eager to see whether Argentina can maintain the same intensity without their captain before he returns for the knockout phase, where Scaloni will hope his star forward is fully refreshed for the challenges ahead.