Here’s the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-27 06:14:00.
ARLINGTON, Texas — Lionel Messi will begin Argentina’s final group stage match against Jordan on Saturday from the substitutes’ bench, as confirmed by coach Lionel Scaloni. “Leo will be a substitute tomorrow, to play later. We’ll announce the team tomorrow,” Scaloni stated during a press conference on Friday ahead of the game at AT&T Stadium.
Argentina’s Group Stage Success
Argentina has already secured a spot in the round of 32 as the winners of Group J, following victories over Algeria and Austria. The reigning 2022 champions are set to face the Group H runners-up, Cape Verde, next Friday in Miami.
Scaloni emphasized that the decision regarding the starting lineup does not relate to the opponent they will encounter in the knockout stages. Messi remains the sole goal scorer for the team in this tournament, having netted five goals across the first two matches, which solidifies his record for the most goals in men’s World Cup history at 18. He accomplished this feat with a hat trick against Algeria and added two more against Austria. The Inter Miami star is currently leading the race for the Golden Boot.
Despite his outstanding performance, Messi has been managing a minor left hamstring injury that has affected his preparation for the World Cup. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez may be the only regular starter in a lineup likely to feature several changes, with Nico Paz expected to replace Messi, having made his World Cup debut after coming on for the star in the opening match against Algeria.
“The hope is that the team will play the same way. That’s what we’re going to try to do,” Scaloni remarked. He acknowledged that Jordan poses a strong challenge, insisting that the team won’t underestimate their opponents. “We’ll try to tweak some aspects of the last match, but with the same intention of controlling the ball and dominating the opponent,” he added.
Following the match against Jordan, Argentina will head to Miami for their round of 32 clash in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
FAQs
Why is Lionel Messi starting on the bench?
Messi is starting on the bench to manage a minor left hamstring injury and to bring him on later in the match.
Who will Argentina face next?
Argentina is set to face Cape Verde in the round of 32 after winning Group J.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-27 06:14:00
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Tags: #Lionel #Messi #start #bench #Argentina #group #finale
Tags: #Lionel #Messi #start #bench #Argentina #group #finale
