Lionel Scaloni faces a rotation call against Jordan as Argentina looks to protect its players before the FIFA World Cup knockouts. | Photo Credit: AFP

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

But after wins over Algeria and Austria, Scaloni’s challenge, now, is about protecting legs and giving minutes to the rest of his squad while still carrying the momentum into the knockouts. “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 said.

The main 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 strain, Messi could be rested, with Como’s Nico Paz among those in line to step up. Julian Alvarez could also be given a start alongside Lautaro Martinez in attack.

Giuliano Simeone is another who may come into the side on the right, while Thiago Almada could retain 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 could be changes in defence as well. Cristian Romero suffered a knee injury during the win over Austria and, although he has played down concerns, Argentina is unlikely to take unnecessary risks.

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

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

ALSO READ: Inside the AI technology behind the 2026 FIFA World Cup

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

The world champion will dominate possession regardless of Scaloni’s starting XI. But it remains to be seen how quickly its reshuffled 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 fixture into another vibrant evening of colour and noise. Sharing a pitch with the reigning world champion and arguably football’s greatest player will be a landmark moment for a nation making its first appearance in a World Cup.

For Argentina, however, sentiments can wait. The knockout rounds begin soon, where every mistake becomes irreversible. Saturday offers one final opportunity to sharpen combinations, protect players and perhaps allow Messi to add another record before the tournament truly starts.

Published on Jun 26, 2026