Lionel Messi Starts on the Bench as Argentina Face Jordan

• Lionel Messi will start on the bench for Argentina’s final Group F clash against Jordan, with coach Lionel Scaloni opting to rest the captain after the reigning champions sealed their place in the World Cup knockout rounds.

Lionel Messi will start on the bench when Argentina national football team face Jordan national football team in their final Group F match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed the decision ahead of the match at Dallas Stadium, revealing that the Inter Miami star will be introduced later in the game.

“Leo will start on the bench,” Scaloni said. “Leo will come in a little bit later.”

The decision comes after Messi scored all five of Argentina’s goals in their victories over Algeria and Austria, helping the reigning world champions secure qualification to the knockout stage with a game to spare.

Despite resting his captain, Scaloni dismissed suggestions that he is fielding a weakened side.

“Those that are playing tomorrow deserve to play. They are part of the team and have worked hard for this opportunity,” he said.

Argentina have already secured top spot in Group F, allowing Scaloni the opportunity to rotate his squad ahead of the Round of 16.

Meanwhile, Jordan head into the encounter already eliminated after suffering back-to-back defeats in their first-ever World Cup appearance.

Scaloni expects a defensive approach from the Jordanians but insists his team remains focused on finishing the group stage with another victory.