Argentina vs. Jordan: Preview, Team News, and Predicted Line-up

By Sanjay Menon — 27 June 2026 — 3 min read

Argentina is set to face Jordan in their final Group J fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2026. The defending champions have already secured their spot in the round of 32 as group winners, allowing for potential squad rotation by manager Lionel Scaloni. The match against Jordan, who have been eliminated from contention, will be the first-ever encounter between the two nations.

Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami CF and Argentina, has been a central figure in the team’s success, scoring five goals in the tournament. His recent brace against Austria, a 2-0 victory for Argentina, saw him achieve several milestones. Messi scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals, becoming the tournament’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer. He also reached 18 wins, making him the player with the most victories in the FIFA World Cup, and tied the record for most consecutive World Cup games with a goal, scoring in his past six appearances.

Argentina currently leads Group J with six points, having secured two wins. Their campaign began with a 3-0 victory over Algeria, followed by the win against Austria. A draw or win against Jordan will confirm their position as group winners. Jordan, on the other hand, enters the match after two defeats and is out of the competition for a spot in the round of 32.

Expected Line-up Changes

With qualification secured, Scaloni is expected to rotate his squad, providing opportunities for players who have seen less game time. While Emiliano Martínez could retain his position as goalkeeper, changes are anticipated across the field. Gonzalo Montiel, known for his winning moment in Qatar, might replace Nahuel Molina at right-back.

In central defence, Nicolás Otamendi is expected to make his first start of the tournament. This comes after Cristian Romero may be rested ahead of the knockout stages. Lisandro Martínez, whose left-footedness and passing ability have enhanced Argentina’s build-up play, could feature for approximately an hour. Nicolás Tagliafico is also likely to start at left-back, potentially his only start of the World Cup, as Facundo Medina has had an impressive start to the tournament.

In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul, who has maintained his form despite moving away from Europe’s top-five leagues, is expected to play. Leandro Paredes, a skilled passer, is poised to offer respite to Alexis Mac Allister. Enzo Fernández, who was a burgeoning talent in Qatar and is now considered a key leader, is also anticipated to be in the starting eleven. Thiago Almada, who contributed to Messi’s record-breaking 17th World Cup goal against Austria, is another likely starter.

Upfront, Nico González, who offers an aerial threat, could start after appearing off the bench in the previous match. Julián Álvarez, who is building his fitness after an ankle injury, seems ready for his first start. His increased influence is expected to reduce La Albiceleste’s reliance on Messi. Messi has also guided Argentina to titles including the 2021 CONMEBOL Copa América and the 2022 CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions, in addition to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title. De Paul also played a key role in the 2021 CONMEBOL Copa América and 2022 CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions triumphs, and has earned caps for Argentina.

The match against Jordan is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET at Dallas Stadium.

Source: si.com