Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will begin on the bench when the reigning world champions take on Jordan in their final group-stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Scaloni made the announcement during his pre-match press conference, revealing that Messi will be rested from the starting lineup after playing a decisive role in Argentina's successful qualification for the knockout stage. The 39-year-old forward has been in sensational form, scoring all five of Argentina's goals in victories over Algeria and Austria to help his side secure top spot in the group with one match to spare.
Speaking to reporters, Scaloni confirmed the decision while stressing that the move should not be interpreted as a sign of a weakened team.
"Leo will start on the bench," the Argentina coach said, adding that the veteran forward is expected to feature later in the game. He explained that the squad rotation is intended to reward other players who have contributed throughout the campaign while also managing workloads ahead of the knockout rounds.
With Argentina already guaranteed a place in the Round of 32, the coaching staff is taking the opportunity to rest key players and give valuable match experience to other members of the squad. Scaloni maintained that every player selected deserves the opportunity to represent the national team and that Argentina's competitive approach will remain unchanged despite the changes in personnel.
Messi's omission from the starting lineup is not related to injury. Instead, it reflects Argentina's long-term strategy of keeping their captain fresh for the more demanding knockout fixtures. The Inter Miami star remains one of the tournament's standout performers and is currently among the leading contenders for the Golden Boot after his prolific start to the competition.
Jordan, meanwhile, will be hoping to end their World Cup campaign on a positive note against one of the tournament favourites. Although already eliminated from the competition, the Middle Eastern side is expected to approach the match with determination in what will be one of the biggest fixtures in the nation's football history.
Argentina enter the encounter as overwhelming favourites, but Scaloni cautioned against underestimating their opponents, noting that Jordan could prove dangerous on the counterattack if given space.
Football fans around the world will also be watching closely to see when Messi enters the match, with many expecting the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner to feature in the second half as Argentina fine-tune preparations for the knockout stage.
The highly anticipated clash will serve as Argentina's final test before they begin the defence of their World Cup title in the tournament's knockout rounds.