Scaloni to Bench Messi in Last World Cup Group Game

Argentina's head coach, Lionel Scaloni, confirmed that he will bench captain Lionel Messi for the final group match of the 2026 World Cup against Jordan. This decision comes after Argentina secured their place in the Round of 32 following victories over Algeria and Austria, where Messi scored five goals.

Scaloni indicated that the decision to rest Messi is strategic, aiming to prepare the team for the upcoming knockout stage. He acknowledged that Jordan is a good opponent but emphasized the need to control the game and dominate the opposition in their last group match.