This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.
Messi Dropped to Bench as Argentina Rotate Squad for World Cup Knockouts
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is in full swing, and defending champions Argentina have already secured their spot in the knockout rounds. But manager Lionel Scaloni dropped a bombshell ahead of their final group stage match against Jordan: Lionel Messi will start on the bench.
Why Messi Is Being Rested
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Scaloni confirmed the decision was purely tactical. With Argentina already through to the Round of 32, the coaching staff wants to manage the 38-year-old Messi’s workload while giving the rest of the squad valuable minutes before the knockout stages.
“Messi will be on the bench, but I’m telling you because it’s you,” Scaloni told reporters. “Messi will most likely play the second half. It’s a decision primarily made so that his teammates can also get playing time. We’ll see how many minutes.”
The veteran forward has been instrumental in Argentina’s campaign so far, and keeping him fresh for the knockout rounds is a smart move from a manager who knows how to win tournaments — Scaloni led Argentina to glory in 2022.
Double-Striker Experiment Against Jordan
With Messi expected to come off the bench in the second half, Argentina could deploy both Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez together in attack from the start. Scaloni confirmed the partnership remains a tactical option, provided it doesn’t upset the team’s balance.
“If the others are running, Lautaro and Julian can play together,” Scaloni admitted. “It’s about the team’s balance. They’ve already played together, and we’ve drawn conclusions.”
There was also good news regarding Cristian “Cuti” Romero. Scaloni confirmed the center-back’s injury is “not as serious as we thought,” giving Argentina a defensive boost heading into knockout play.
Argentina’s Road Ahead
Argentina’s Round of 32 opponent has already been confirmed: they will face debutants Cape Verde at Miami Stadium on July 3. It’s a favorable draw on paper, but Cape Verde have shown grit to reach this stage, and Scaloni will want his full squad firing on all cylinders.
World Cup 2026 — Key Upcoming Matches
| Match | Date | Time (ET) |
| Panama vs England | Sat, Jun 27 | 5:00 PM |
| Croatia vs Ghana | Sat, Jun 27 | 5:00 PM |
| Argentina vs Cape Verde (R32) | Fri, Jul 3 | TBD |
| Sweden vs France (R32) | Tue, Jun 30 | TBD |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Messi not starting the match?
Scaloni confirmed Messi is being rested because Argentina have already qualified for the knockout rounds. The decision is about managing the captain’s workload and giving other squad members a chance to play before the high-stakes knockout stage.
When will Messi play next?
Messi is expected to come off the bench in the second half of Argentina’s match against Jordan. He will almost certainly start in the Round of 32 match against Cape Verde on July 3.
Who will Argentina face in the Round of 32?
Argentina will face tournament debutants Cape Verde at Miami Stadium on July 3. The match will be played in Miami as part of the 2026 World Cup’s expanded 104-game schedule.
Is Cristian Romero fit for the knockout stages?
Scaloni confirmed that Romero’s injury is not as serious as initially feared. While he missed group training, he completed intensive individual work and is expected to be available for the knockout rounds.
Final Thoughts
Scaloni is playing the long game. Resting Messi now could pay huge dividends in the knockout rounds, where one moment of magic from the GOAT can decide a tie. Argentina are deep, talented, and tactically flexible — and they know exactly how to win this tournament.
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.
Source: Goal.com