Lionel Messi will begin Argentina’s final Group J match against Jordan on the bench after head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed plans to rest his captain ahead of the World Cup knockout rounds.
The 39-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable tournament, scoring five goals in Argentina’s opening two matches. His brace against Austria also saw him become the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Despite Messi’s outstanding form, Scaloni said the decision was made to manage the veteran forward’s workload rather than because of any fitness concerns.
Scaloni explains decision
Speaking before Sunday’s clash in Dallas, the Argentina coach said: “Leo [Messi] will most likely come on in the second half.”
He added: “We talked and agreed that it was better that way, but obviously it’s also good for him to stay in competitive form.”
Scaloni also dismissed suggestions that his team selection was influenced by Argentina’s upcoming knockout fixture.
“The decision of who plays tomorrow is not related to who plays in the next match,” he said.
“Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate through possession. The opponent’s forwards are fast and we will have to take that into account.”
Golden Boot race remains open
Messi currently leads the race for the Golden Boot with five goals, while France striker Kylian Mbappe remains on four after failing to score in his side’s victory over Norway.
Norway’s Erling Haaland, who also has four goals, was rested in the same round of matches, while France winger Ousmane Dembele moved level with Mbappe after scoring a first-half hat-trick against Norway.
Although Messi will not start against Jordan, he is expected to feature in the second half as Argentina look to finish the group stage strongly before turning their attention to the round of 32.