Scaloni Will Rotate Argentina Squad When Facing Jordan, Lionel Messi Rest?

Because it is certain to qualify for the last 32, Lionel Scolani is likely to replace the core players including Lionel Messi in order to give other players a chance to play. (Instagram @afaseleccion)

JAKARTA - Argentina national team coach Lionel Scaloni will rotate his players when facing Jordan in the last match of Group J of the 2026 World Cup at the Dallas Stadium, United States, Sunday (28/6) WIB.

The squad nicknamed La Albiceleste has already ensured their qualification to the last 32 as group champions so this match is no longer decisive for both teams.

"The idea is to give the opportunity to most of the players to play. I think they deserve it and, as long as the match situation allows it, we will do it," Scaloni said, quoted by Argentine media TyC Sport, Friday.

The 2022 World Cup champion swept away the first two matches with a 3-0 victory over Algeria and a 2-0 victory over Austria. The captain, Lionel Messi, was the star by scoring all five goals scored by Argentina so far.

The strategy that will be carried out by Argentine coach Lionel Scolani because he is sure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup 32-team round: is to rest the core players. (Instagram @afaseleccion)

Messi, who turned 39 on Wednesday (24/6) and has just recovered from a muscle injury, has the chance to be rested. Young midfielder Nico Paz is said to be a strong candidate to fill the captain's role.

Several players such as Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Tagliafico, and Leandro Paredes are also expected to get more playing time.

Alvarez, who only appeared as a substitute in the previous two matches, admitted that his condition is now much better.

"I didn't come in the best condition to play the trial games, but now I feel very healthy. I'm just trying to help the team and carry out the role given to me," said Alvarez, as reported by Antara.

In the back line, Argentina is likely not to be strengthened by Cristian Romero after the center back suffered an injury against Austria. Nicolas Otamendi is expected to fill the position left by Romero.

Meanwhile, Jordan has been confirmed to be eliminated after losing 1-3 to Austria and 1-2 to Algeria. Despite failing to advance to the next round in their debut appearance at the World Cup, Jordan coach Jamal Sellami assessed that the duel against the defending champions would be an opportunity for his team to close the tournament with a positive impression.