Argentina's national football team faces significant challenges as two of its star players, Lionel Messi and Paulo Dybala, have been ruled out of upcoming matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to injuries sustained on March 16, 2025. The team, which is gearing up for important South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, will have to adjust to the absences of these key players.
Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, suffered a muscular injury during his team's 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. Despite scoring a goal and completing the full 90 minutes, he is now unable to participate in the qualifiers. His experience and skill would have been invaluable for Argentina, particularly as the team faces off against their historic rivals.
On the same day, Dybala, the Roma forward, was also sidelined due to a left thigh injury. The injury occurred during the Serie A match against Cagliari, where Dybala entered the game as a substitute in the 64th minute but had to leave crying after injuring himself less than 15 minutes later. "Dybala will be sidelined for at least three weeks due to this injury," reported EFE, indicating the severity of his condition.
The loss of both players has sparked concern among fans and analysts alike. Argentina, now without two of its most prominent talents, will face Uruguay on March 21, 2025, followed by hostinga match against Brazil on March 25, 2025, at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. These matches are pivotal, especially with World Cup qualification on the line.
The Argentine national team, guided by coach Lionel Scaloni, originally announced Messi's inclusion in the preliminary squad two weeks before the injury reports. With both players now absent, the squad will rely on other talented names. The proposed squad includes goalkeepers Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa), Gerónimo Rulli (Olympique de Marseille), and Walter Benítez (PSV). Meanwhile, defenders like Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Nicolás Otamendi (Benfica), and midfielders like Leandro Paredes (Roma) and Enzo Fernández (Chelsea) are set to step up.
Despite being sidelined, both Messi and Dybala have had impressive seasons to date. Dybala, who has played 35 matches across Serie A, the Europa League, and the Coppa Italia, has scored 8 goals and provided 4 assists. Such contributions are significant for Argentina, as their performance directly influences their road to the World Cup.
Coach Scaloni will have to carefully navigate the team dynamics without his star players. Argentina has historically had strong performances with Messi and Dybala leading the offensive charge. Losing such influential players puts additional pressure on the squad and raises questions about tactical adjustments necessary for upcoming matches.
Argentina goes against Uruguay on Friday, March 21, where they will try to secure valuable points, and then plays Brazil four days later. These matches not only carry the weight of qualification for the World Cup, but they also deepen the rivalry between these South American soccer nations.
The team's selection committee will likely see passionate discussions on adjustments needed to compensate for the loss of these two stars. Every match counts, especially considering the competitiveness of the South American qualifiers.
While fans remain hopeful for quick recoveries for their favorite players, Scaloni and the remaining squad will have to rise to the occasion, adapting quickly to the unfortunate circumstances. The situation will undoubtedly test the depth and resilience of Argentinian football.
