World Cup top scorer Lionel Messi will start Argentina's final group match against Jordan on the bench, according to manager Lionel Scaloni. The match is set to kick off at 03:00 BST on Sunday in Dallas.
Messi, 39, leads the Golden Boot standings with five goals from his first two matches, including a double against Austria, which made him the World Cup's all-time record goalscorer. His performance has been pivotal for Argentina as they navigate through the tournament.
Scaloni clarified that the decision to rest Messi is not due to injury. He stated, "Leo [Messi] will most likely come on in the second half.
We talked and agreed that it was better that way, but obviously, it’s also good for him to stay in competitive form." This strategic decision underscores the team's approach to managing player fitness while maintaining competitive readiness.
Scaloni emphasized that the choice of players for this match does not affect future matches, indicating a focus on both immediate performance and long-term tournament strategy. He noted, "Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate through possession.
The opponent's forwards are fast, and we will have to take that into account." This highlights Argentina's tactical considerations as they prepare to face Jordan.
In related news, Kylian Mbappe did not add to his four goals during France's 4-1 victory over Norway, a match that saw Erling Haaland also remain on the bench.
However, Ousmane Dembele made headlines by scoring a first-half hat-trick, bringing his total to four goals for the tournament and placing him in contention for the Golden Boot alongside Messi and Mbappe.
