Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed captain Lionel Messi will start on the bench in Saturday's final Group F match against Jordan at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reports Reuters.
The defending champions have already secured a place in the Round of 32 after victories over Algeria and Austria, with Messi scoring all five of Argentina's goals in the two matches.
"Leo will start on the bench," Scaloni told reporters on Friday. "I'm answering because you deserve a sincere answer. Leo will come in a little bit later."
The Argentina coach rejected suggestions that he was fielding a weakened side ahead of the knockout stage, saying every member of the squad had earned the opportunity to play.
"Those who are playing tomorrow deserve to play. They are part of the team and have worked hard in training. Whenever I have the chance, I like to give everyone minutes because they deserve it," he said.
Scaloni added that his goal was to maintain the team's performance regardless of the players on the pitch.
"If you are wearing the Argentina jersey, you always play to win. It doesn't matter whether the match affects qualification or not. Nothing changes for us," he said.
Already assured of top spot in Group F, Argentina will face a Jordan side that has been eliminated after losing its first two matches in its World Cup debut.
Scaloni expects Jordan to adopt a defensive approach but said his team is prepared to adjust if necessary.
"Jordan usually play with five defenders. If we face difficulties, we are ready to adapt depending on how our opponents play," he said.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
