2026 FIFA World Cup group stage fixtures and Argentina bench Messi

The Round of 32 matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are set for June 28 – July 4. Pairings include Brazil vs Japan, Germany vs Paraguay, Netherlands vs Morocco, France vs Sweden, Argentina vs Jordan and many others across the 32 qualified teams.

Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi will begin the final group‑stage match against Jordan on the bench, saying “Ο Λίο θα ξεκινήσει στον πάγκο” (Messi will start on the bench). Scaloni added that Messi may be brought on later if the game permits, while the squad has already secured the top spot in its group.

These announcements outline the knockout schedule and the tactical decision surrounding one of football’s biggest stars ahead of the tournament’s next phase.