Scaloni, from 'football is a chess game' to joking about the World Cup ending tomorrow

Lionel Scaloni, Argentina's coach, is set to experiment with a lineup featuring mostly reserve players in their upcoming World Cup qualifier against Jordan. Scaloni, who typically avoids discussing team favorites, emphasized the need for his squad to be prepared for any challenge in what he anticipates will be a closely contested tournament. The match against Jordan, despite Argentina having already secured the top spot in their group and Jordan being eliminated, holds significant value for Scaloni. He views it as a crucial opportunity to test tactical variations and integrate players who have seen less action, thereby expanding the team's options for the knockout stages. Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi would not start, and the formation would include a majority of substitutes. He hinted at potential "nuances" in the team's approach, suggesting changes beyond just player personnel, possibly altering the tactical setup. Observing Jordan's strategy of a five-defender line and fast counter-attacks, Scaloni indicated that Argentina might shift its formation from the usual 4-3-3 or 4-4-2. "If we see we are in difficulty, sometimes a system implies changing. We have worked, the team knows what to do. It could be a good moment," he explained. This strategic flexibility is not solely for the Jordan match but also for the subsequent elimination rounds where margin for error is nonexistent. Scaloni acknowledged the diverse playing styles encountered in the World Cup, noting teams that attack with possession, those that excel on the counter, and defensively solid units, all of which present unique challenges.

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If we see we are in difficulty, sometimes a system implies changing. We have worked, the team knows what to do. It could be a good moment.