Scaloni to Rest Messi Versus Jordan as Argentina Shifts Focus to Knockouts
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed that captain Lionel Messi will sit out the final Group J match against Jordan at the 2026 World Cup. With qualification for the Round of 32 already secured through wins over Algeria and Austria, Scaloni sees this as the perfect moment to give Messi a rest before the knockout phase. The superstar has netted all five of Argentina’s goals so far and played a key role in securing top spot in the group. Scaloni stressed that the team will approach the Jordan game with full concentration, despite Messi’s absence. “Jordan is a good opponent, and we’re not taking anything for granted,” he told reporters, as Argentina aims to finish the group stage undefeated.
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