Scaloni Reveals Messi's Position on Playing Against Jordan

Lionel Scaloni, the coach of the Argentina national team, confirmed that Lionel Messi will not start in the match against Jordan, in the third round of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, explaining that the Tango captain will participate in the match from the bench.

Scaloni said: "Leo will start on the bench and will enter the match later. As for the starting lineup, I have already determined it, but I have not informed the players yet."

The Argentina coach spoke about the tactical diversity witnessed in the tournament, saying: "We see different styles of play; some rely on possession, others prefer counter-attacks, while other teams depend on defensive strength. It is difficult to change the style of play radically, but some adjustments can be made, and all these methods are capable of achieving victories."

Regarding the possibility of deploying several substitute players against Jordan, he explained: "The players who will participate deserve this opportunity. A large part of our success is due to their training with the same enthusiasm even when they did not participate in the matches. They are great players, and we will try to deliver the same style."

Scaloni concluded his statements by discussing Argentina's potential opponent in the round of 32, responding: "I do not prefer any team. I only hope the tournament ends tomorrow and we become world champions. It would be disrespectful to specify a better opponent because all the teams we have seen so far are strong, and all matches will be difficult."