Scaloni confirms he’ll bench Messi in Argentina’s last World Cup group game against Jordan

​Scaloni, however, insisted that despite the decision to leave Messi out, he and his coaching crew are “not taking anything for granted”.

​By Kehinde Okeowo

​Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has said his captain and Inter Miami star, Lionel Messi, will not start their last 2026 World Cup group game against Jordan.

​He made this known during his pre-match interview ahead of the game scheduled to be played at the Dallas Stadium on Sunday.

​Argentina have already qualified for the Round of 32, following victories over North African side Algeria and European representatives, Austria.

​Messi has, however, scored all five goals so far recorded by the reigning World Cup champions at the tournament.

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​Speaking about the encounter against Jordan, Scaloni said the 39-year-old striker is set to be given a rest as the knockouts loom.

​The Argentine tactician added: “The hope is that the team will play the same way. That’s what we’re going to try to do.

​”Jordan is a good opponent, and we’re not taking anything for granted.

​”We’ll try to tweak some aspects of the last match, but with the same intention of controlling the ball and dominating the opponent.”