Will Scaloni rest Messi, unleash fringe players against Jordan?
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to ring the changes for his side's final Group J fixture against Jordan, with the reigning world champions already assured of top spot and a place in the World Cup knockout stage.
The contest will take place at the Dallas Stadium at 8:00 am (Bangladesh time) on Sunday.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. According to Argentine broadcaster TyC Sports, Scaloni is set to hand World Cup debuts to several squad members while resting regular starters ahead of the round-of-32 clash next Saturday in Miami.
Argentina sealed first place in the group following their 2-0 win over Austria on Monday, coupled with Algeria's victory over Jordan, allowing Scaloni the luxury of rotating his squad without affecting their qualification.
While the starting XI has yet to be confirmed, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is expected to be the only regular starter to retain his place after keeping clean sheets in Argentina's opening two matches.
Gonzalo Montiel is tipped to return after recovering from the hamstring injury that ruled him out against Austria, joining Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Senesi -- who had replaced injured Leonardo Balerdi -- and Nicolas Tagliafico in defence.
In midfield, Exequiel Palacios, Giovani Lo Celso and Giuliano Simeone are in line to feature, while Valentín Barco is another player who could make his first appearance of the tournament.
Nico Paz is expected to replace Lionel Messi in the No. 10 role, with the Argentina captain likely to be introduced in the second half.
Up front, Julián Alvarez is set to lead the line as he looks to strengthen his case for a starting place ahead of Lautaro Martínez.
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