Argentina national team have begun preparations for Saturday’s match against Jordan, having already secured first place in Group K after a strong start to the 2026 World Cup. The team’s training atmosphere is relatively relaxed.

At the Sporting Kansas City training base, coach Lionel Scaloni led the first session following the win over Austria. The entire squad returned to camp from Dallas last night.

More intense training work was reserved for players who did not feature in the previous match or only played limited minutes. The starting XI mainly carried out recovery sessions, especially in the gym. For example, Lionel Messi did not appear on the pitch during the 15-minute media-open session.

Cristian Romero, who was substituted in the second half against Austria due to discomfort in his right knee, underwent recovery work with the medical staff. The team remains optimistic that he will be fit for the Round of 32 on July 3. However, it is certain that Romero will be among those rested for the match against Jordan.

Scaloni must decide whether to field a fully rotated lineup or make significant changes to the starting XI. Nicolás Tagliafico and Julián Álvarez are likely to start against the Asian side. If they perform well, they could re-enter contention for regular starting roles. Previously, Facundo Medina impressed at left-back, while Lautaro Martínez, although he did not score, remained dangerous throughout and even won the penalty that Messi missed against Austria.

In this rotated squad, several players who have had limited minutes so far in the tournament are expected to feature. Nicolás Otamendi is likely to play, while Gonzalo Montiel’s availability remains uncertain, though he has resumed training. Exequiel Palacios, Leandro Paredes, Giuliano Simeone, and Nicolás González may also get opportunities.

In attack, if the coaching staff chooses to rest Messi, Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez could start together. Another option would be pairing the Atlético Madrid forward with López up front.