Messi’s half-time call looms as Scaloni watches Argentina’s knockouts

Lionel Scaloni has changed little so far at this World Cup. Between Argentina’s first two matches, the coach made just one change to his starting line-up, preferring continuity as the defending champions entered the knockout rounds.

But after wins over Algeria and Austria, Scaloni’s challenge is now about protecting the legs and giving minutes to the rest of his side, while still carrying the momentum towards the knockouts. «The idea is to give the most players a chance to play. I think they deserve it and, when the match allows it, we will do that,» Scaloni said.

The most important question inevitably concerns Lionel Messi. The Argentina captain, who turned 39 on Wednesday, has scored all five of his team’s goals in the tournament so far. Having recently recovered from a muscle injury, Messi could be reassured, with Como’s Nico Paz in line to go one step further. Julian Alvarez could also get a starting start in attack alongside Lautaro Martinez.

Giuliano Simeone is another player who could come into the side on the right, while Thiago Almada could keep his place on the left. In midfield, Leandro Paredes and Exequiel Palacios are options to give Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister a breather.

There may also be changes in defense. Cristian Romero suffered a knee injury during the win over Austria and although he has played down the concerns, Argentina is unlikely to take any unnecessary risks.

Nicolas Otamendi could replace him, while Marcos Senesi could come in to give Lisandro Martinez a rest. The full-backs could remain unchanged to provide stability, with Emiliano Martinez expected to remain in goal.

Jordan, meanwhile, has little choice but to suffer without the ball. Jamal Sellami’s side are expected to sit deep in the back three, remain compact and try to frustrate Argentina for as long as possible. The best route forward will be through quick counters, with Mousa Al-Tamari the obvious outlet.

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Exchanging blows with Argentina, even a rotated Argentina, is not an option.

The world champions will dominate possession regardless of Scaloni’s starting XI. But it remains to be seen how quickly the realigned attack can find a way through Jordan’s low block.

Thousands of supporters from the Jordanian diaspora are expected in Dallas, turning an otherwise routine group stage into a vibrant evening of color and noise. Sharing a pitch with the reigning world champions and arguably football’s greatest player will be a milestone for a country participating in a World Cup for the first time.

For Argentina, however, sentiments can wait. The knockout rounds will soon begin, where every mistake will become irreversible. Saturday offers one last chance to tighten combinations, protect players and perhaps let Messi set another record before the tournament really starts.

Published on June 26, 2026