Messi may miss Jordan clash

KANSAS CITY: Argentina head into their final Group J match against Jordan on Saturday with one eye already on the knockout stage, while their rivals will be eager to sign off their first World Cup campaign on a positive note in what is effectively ⁠a dead rubber. The South Americans have secured top spot in the group and ⁠a place in the round of 32 after beating Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0, with Lionel Messi scoring all five of their goals.

Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni gives an MD-1 press conference at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington on June 21, 2026, on the eve of the 2026 World Cup Group J football match between Argentina and Austria. — AFP

Before facing the Group H runners-up in Miami on July 3, Argentina coach ‌Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate his squad ​against Jordan. Messi himself ⁠could be rested, with Nico Paz in line to step in for ​the talisman, who turned 39 on ‌Wednesday and had recently recovered from a muscle strain.

"The idea is to give most players a chance to play. I think ​they deserve it and, whenever the match allows it, we will do so," Scaloni told reporters.

INCREASED MINUTES

Players returning from recent injuries - including striker Julian Alvarez, left back Nicolas Tagliafico and midfielder Leandro Paredes - may get increased minutes. "I didn't arrive in the best shape to play the friendlies, but I feel ‌very good now. Supporting the team and filling the role that was given to ​me," said Alvarez, who came on as a substitute in the first two matches.

Defender Cristian ​Romero ‌is ⁠likely to miss out after being forced off with an injury in the win over Austria, with veteran Nicolas Otamendi expected to replace him. Argentina's defence has yet to face a ​significant test, and uncertainties in the sector remain. Jordan, making ⁠their tournament debut, ​were eliminated following a 3-1 defeat by Austria and a 2-1 loss to Algeria, but coach Jamal Sellami said the clash against the defending champions would be an opportunity for his side to leave a great mark.

Sellami said his players' inexperience may have cost them ​in the defeat by Algeria, but that he was proud of their World ​Cup campaign despite the early exit.

Argentina and Jordan meet in Arlington, Texas, while Austria and Algeria play at the same time in Kansas City. — Reuters

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Group J - Argentina v Austria - Dallas Stadium, Arlington, Texas, U.S. - June 22, 2026 Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni before the match REUTERS/Hannah Mckay