Messi to Miss Argentina’s Group Stage Start, Could Feature as Substitute

Texas, June 27: Argentina captain Lionel Messi will start on the bench when the defending FIFA World Cup champions take on Jordan in their final Group J fixture on Saturday, with head coach Lionel Scaloni opting to manage the veteran forward’s workload ahead of the knockout stage.

Speaking ahead of the match, Scaloni confirmed that the 39 year old superstar would not be part of the starting XI but indicated Messi is expected to feature later in the contest. The decision comes after Argentina secured qualification for the Round of 32 by winning their opening two group matches.

Messi has enjoyed a sensational start to the tournament, scoring all five of Argentina’s goals so far. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner created history by becoming the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 18 career goals. He equalled former Germany striker Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals with a hat-trick against Algeria before surpassing the mark by scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria.

The Argentine legend has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, joining an elite list that includes France’s Just Fontaine and Brazilian icon Jairzinho. He has also extended his record as the player with the most World Cup appearances, having featured in 28 matches across six editions of the tournament.

Scaloni’s decision to rest his captain is viewed as a precautionary measure, especially after Messi dealt with a minor hamstring issue before arriving at the World Cup. Although the forward has shown no signs of discomfort during the competition, Argentina face a demanding knockout schedule if they progress deep into the tournament.

With the expanded 48-team format, Argentina could play five knockout matches in just over two weeks if they reach the July 19 final. The coaching staff is therefore expected to rotate several key players against Jordan to keep the squad fresh.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez may be the only regular starter to retain his place, while several fringe players are likely to be given an opportunity. Midfielder Nicolas Paz, who replaced Messi late in the opening match against Algeria to make his World Cup debut, is expected to start in the captain’s position.

Despite already sealing top spot in Group J, Scaloni insisted Argentina would approach the match with full seriousness.

“Our objective remains the same. We want to control possession, dictate the tempo and continue improving as a team. Jordan deserve respect, and we are not taking this match lightly,” the Argentina coach said.

Jordan, making their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, have already been eliminated after defeats in their opening two matches. However, they will be determined to end their historic campaign on a positive note against one of football’s biggest giants.

Argentina, meanwhile, will be aiming to complete an unbeaten group-stage campaign and carry winning momentum into the knockout rounds, where tougher challenges await in their bid to successfully defend the World Cup title.