Lionel Messi will start Argentina final match of group J vs Jordan on the bench after the head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed plans to rest his captain ahead of the knockout rounds of the World Cup.
The 39-year-old enjoyed a remarkable tournament, scoring five goals in Argentina’s first two matches. In the match against Austria, he also became the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
Despite Messi’s outstanding form, Scaloni said the decision was made to accommodate the veteran’s workload and not because of any fitness issues.
Scaloni explains the decision
Speaking ahead of 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’s better that way, but obviously it’s also good for him to stay in competitive shape.”
Scaloni also dismissed suggestions that his squad selection was influenced by Argentina’s upcoming knockout tie.
“The decision about who plays tomorrow has nothing to do with who plays in the next game,” he said.
“Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate possession. The opposing attackers are fast and we will have to take that into account.”
The race for the Golden Boot remains open
Messi currently leads the Golden Boot race with five goals, while France forward Kylian Mbappe remains on four after failing to score in his side’s win over Norway.
Norway’s Erling Haaland, who also has four goals, was rested in the same round of games, while France winger Ousmane Dembele drew 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 16.
