Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will begin on the bench for Saturday's FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match against Jordan at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Inter Miami star has scored all five of Argentina's goals in the tournament so far, netting in victories over Algeria and Austria to secure his side's place in the knockout rounds.
Scaloni Explains Decision to Bench Messi
"Leo will start on the bench. Leo will come in a little bit later," Scaloni said, according to Reuters. The coach emphasized that the players selected for the match deserve the opportunity due to their hard work and quality. "Those who are playing tomorrow deserve to play, they are part of the team. All the effort we've put into training is because of them, that's why we're here. They are making every effort when they're not playing. I'd love to give everybody minutes, and when I have the chance, I do, and it's because they deserve it. They are fantastic players too," Scaloni added.
Group J Standings and Match Context
The contest is effectively a dead rubber, with Argentina already securing top spot in Group J after wins over Algeria and Austria. Jordan, meanwhile, have been eliminated following consecutive defeats to Austria and Algeria, leaving Saturday's fixture with no bearing on the final standings. Scaloni noted that Jordan typically employs a five-defender system and said Argentina are prepared to adjust if needed. "Jordan normally plays with five defenders, and we're open to the possibility that, if we're facing some difficulties, we might have to move slightly differently," he concluded.
Messi's Impact in the Tournament
Messi has been instrumental in Argentina's campaign, scoring all five of the team's goals in their first two matches. His absence from the starting lineup will give other squad members a chance to shine as the team looks to maintain momentum heading into the knockout stage. Scaloni's rotation policy reflects the depth of Argentina's squad and the coach's confidence in his bench players.
