World Cup: Messi benched for Argentina’s final group match

Lionel Messi will start on the bench when Argentina take on Jordan in their final Group J match of the FIFA World Cup.

The defending champions have already secured qualification for the knockout stage as group winners after victories over Algeria and Austria.

Messi has enjoyed a sensational tournament so far, scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match before adding a brace against Austria. His five goals have taken his World Cup tally to a record 18, making him the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer. He also tops the scoring chart at the competition.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed on the eve of the match that the 39-year-old captain will be rested from the starting lineup against Jordan.

Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Scaloni responded to a question from legendary Argentine journalist Macaya Márquez, who is covering his 18th World Cup at the age of 93.

“I’d never reply to any journalist on this topic now… but it is coming from you, and so I tell you: Messi will not start,” Scaloni said, while paying tribute to the veteran journalist.

Argentina are expected to rotate their squad after sealing top spot in the group, with their focus now shifting to the knockout rounds.

Messi will be expected to return for Argentina’s Round of 32 clash against tournament debutants and surprise package Cape Verde on July 3 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida, as the South Americans continue their bid to successfully defend the World Cup title.

Should Argentina retain the trophy, they would become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back FIFA World Cups.

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