Argentina: Messi made a decision before the Jordan match

27.06.26 FT World Cup

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Argentina

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Argentina dominated Jordan (3-1) to top their group at this 2026 World Cup. Before the match, Lionel Messi had announced a decision to his coach.

Although he is usually a regular starter, Lionel Messi began the game on the bench and only came on in the 60th minute. According to head coach Lionel Scaloni, the decision was made by Messi himself.

"Today, he could have played the full 90 minutes and, without taking anything away from the opponent, could have further cemented his legendary status. But he preferred to give his teammates more playing time. He was also thinking ahead, and that speaks volumes about him because he doesn't focus on those stats everyone talks about. I’m happy with his decision," explained the Argentine coach.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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