Messi not starting final World Cup 2026 group match
US. Coach Lionel Scaloni says Argentina will rotate squad, test tactics in final Group J match against Jordan at World Cup 2026.
At June 26 press conference before match at AT&T Stadium, Dallas, Scaloni said squad decisions not related to Round of 16 opponent. "Respectless to choose opponent. We do not want specific team. I want World Cup to end tomorrow with us champions," he said.
Asked by 91-year-old journalist Enrique Macaya Marquez about Messi - starter in first two games, top scorer with 5 goals - Scaloni confirmed 39-year-old superstar will bench. "Messi will enter later. I have lineup, will announce tomorrow. I answer because you asked," Argentina coach told Marquez, working his 18th World Cup.
Coach Lionel Scaloni hugs Lionel Messi after subbing striker in Argentina 3-0 Algeria win, Group J opener, World Cup 2026 at Kansas City, Missouri, US, June 16, 2026. Photo: Reuters
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According to La Nacion, Argentina will change almost entire starting lineup against Jordan, except goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Defending champions aim to finish group stage well, keep squad fresh, prepare for knockout stage.
Argentina guaranteed top spot. Jordan lost both matches, eliminated. Still, Scaloni rates opponent tough. "Jordan play 5-4-1, five defenders, three fast attackers," he analyzed. "They troubled Algeria, Austria, lost only in decisive moments. We not complacent."
According to Scaloni, Argentina can adjust tactics during match. Coaching staff prepared options. 48-year-old coach emphasized Jordan well-organized, dangerous in transition, especially via fast attackers.
Key events Argentina 2-0 Austria.
Scaloni reiterated view on tactical diversity at World Cup 2026. Different styles work: possession, counter-attack, deep defense. Against Jordan, Argentina expect to maintain possession, press via ball circulation, control game, limit counters.
"We see different styles, all get results," he said. "Some control possession like Spain, Argentina. Others counter-attack or defend deep. Paraguay, for example, trouble anyone. Hard to change identity completely. Key is adjusting to each match."
Argentina coach believes modern football has little new. Most tactical ideas existed, rebranded. He said: "Football like chess. Many things existed before, just named differently. Used to have number 8, 5, 10 midfielders. Now called central or box-to-box midfielders. Ideas do not change much."
Hours after press conference, debutant Cape Verde drew Saudi Arabia 0-0 to finish second in Group H, facing Argentina in Round of 16. Match at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, 5:00 AM July 4, Hanoi time.
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