Messi to start on bench for Argentina’s match against Jordan
Lionel Scaloni, coach of Argentina, has confirmed that Lionel Messi will not start in their 2026 FIFA World Cup match against Jordan. The announcement was made during a pre-match press conference in response to a question from veteran journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez. Scaloni expressed admiration for Macaya Márquez, stating he would not have shared this information with any other reporter. The moment was met with applause from those present at the press conference.
Match highlights
- Lionel Scaloni revealed that Lionel Messi will begin the match on the bench and is expected to come on in the second half.
- The confirmation came after a question from 91-year-old journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez, who is covering his 18th World Cup.
- Scaloni praised Macaya Márquez and shared a warm moment with him, including an embrace and photos.
- Fans and social media users described the press conference exchange as a beautiful and respectful moment.
- Messi has been managing fitness concerns and is expected to feature as a substitute as Argentina aims to progress further in the tournament.
