Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni confirms big Lionel Messi plan for next World Cup match

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi will start on the bench for Argentina's 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage match against Jordan on Saturday, June 28, at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas. Scaloni stated the decision is unrelated to future opponents, as Argentina have already secured their place in the Round of 32 as Group J winners following consecutive victories against Algeria and Austria. The rotation is intended to manage Messi's minutes with the knockout stage ahead.