It is finally revealed if Lionel Messi will play in Argentina’s last group stage match.
Argentina have already clinched a spot in the Round of 32, thanks to Lionel Messi’s terrific start to the 2026 World Cup.
Messi scored all five of Argentina’s goals in the first two games against Algeria and Austria. Evidently, there’s a cloud of doubt hovering over Messi’s place in the team vs. Jordan, as it is a meaningless game for the team.
Lionel Messi will not start in Argentina’s game against Jordan
Considering that the result of Argentina vs. Jordan will have no impact on the team’s Round of 32 matchup, it makes sense for the 39-year-old to get some rest.
Well, according to Fabrizio Romano on X, that’s what Argentina’s management intends to do in their final group stage matchup.
“Leo Messi will be on the bench for Argentina vs Jordan,” Romano wrote on X.
While this isn’t a surprising decision, it could have an impact on Messi’s place in the Golden Boot race. After all, the 8x Ballon D’Or winner is currently leading the race with five goals to his name.
If he bags even a single goal against Jordan, he will have some breathing room as all the next best scorers sit with four goals.
Lionel Scaloni gives some good news to Lionel Messi fans
Although it’s confirmed that coach Lionel Scaloni has no plans to start Messi vs. Jordan, he did mention that the little magician will get some gametime in the second half.
“Leo Messi will be on the bench against Jordan. He will have minutes in the second half,” Scaloni said, per Fabrizio Romano.
Not only will this allow Messi to get further ahead in the Golden Boot race, but it will also help him stay in match form ahead of the knockouts.
Argentina are set to face debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32, and an in-form Messi may help in quickly wrapping up the game to prepare for the next round.
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