Al-Salamami: 'Facing Messi Requires Special Preparation, We Hope He Features Against Argentina'

T.E (Elbotola)

13 May 2026at13:56

Jordanian national team coach Jamal Salamami believes that facing Lionel Messi at the 2026 World Cup will require special preparation, expressing his hope that the Argentine star will participate in the match.

In an interview with FIFA's official website, Salamami stated: "As a coach, we are naturally part of this historic achievement, leaving our mark in realizing this dream for Jordanian football. My feelings were a mix of relief and happiness because I contributed to making all Jordanians proud of their national team and an accomplishment that was once a dream and has now become a reality."

He continued: "The match against Argentina will be the third in the World Cup group stage. We hope Messi will be present, as current reports do not confirm his participation, and I wish he would be there because he is still a football icon, which would make the match incredibly exciting."

Salamami concluded: "Facing Messi is, of course, a unique experience because he is currently a football symbol. For the players, we will be facing the world champions, the Argentina national team, which includes a world champion as a player and a world champion as a coach. This represents a significant challenge for our players, and confronting Messi will require special preparation."

It is worth noting that the Jordanian national team is in Group 10, alongside Austria, Algeria, and Argentina.

Q&A

What did Jordanian coach Salamami say about facing Lionel Messi?

Jordanian coach Jamal Salamami expressed his hope that Lionel Messi will play against his team at the 2026 World Cup. He emphasized that facing the football icon would require "special preparation" for his players, making it an incredibly exciting challenge.

How significant is the 2026 World Cup for the Jordanian national team?

The 2026 World Cup represents a historic achievement for Jordanian football, marking a dream realized for the national team. Coach Salamami feels immense pride in contributing to an accomplishment that makes all Jordanians proud of their team.

What challenge does Argentina pose for the Jordanian national team?

Facing Argentina at the World Cup presents a significant challenge for Jordan, as they will confront the reigning world champions. Coach Salamami noted that Argentina features both a world champion player and a world champion coach, demanding unique preparation from his squad.