Buenos Aires, Jun 28 (V7N) – Argentina have announced their starting lineup for their final Group J match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with captain Lionel Messi set to begin the game on the bench as head coach Lionel Scaloni rotates his squad ahead of the knockout stage.
The reigning world champions will face Jordan on Sunday at 8:00 a.m. Bangladesh time.
Having already secured top spot in Group J with victories in their opening two matches, Argentina have opted to rest several key players, including Messi, to keep them fresh for the Round of 32.
The Albiceleste are scheduled to face Group H runners-up Cape Verde in the knockout stage.
In Messi's absence, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez will lead Argentina's attack from the opening whistle.
The midfield will feature Giovani Lo Celso, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios and Nico Paz, while Nicolás Tagliafico, Marcos Senesi, Nicolás Otamendi and Giovanni Simeone are expected to form the defensive line in front of goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
Coach Lionel Scaloni's decision reflects Argentina's strategy of managing player fitness while giving valuable playing time to squad members before the knockout rounds begin.
Argentina's Starting XI:
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez
Defenders: Nicolás Tagliafico, Marcos Senesi, Nicolás Otamendi, Giovanni Simeone
Midfielders: Giovani Lo Celso, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Nico Paz
Forwards: Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez
END/SMA/AJ
