Argentina will face crucial matches against Uruguay on March 22 and Brazil on March 26 as part of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers—yet the national team will do so without their captain, Lionel Messi, who is sidelined due to injury.
The legendary forward, who is currently playing for Inter Miami, shared the news of his absence via an emotional post on Instagram. “I am sad to miss these important matches against Uruguay and Brazil. I would have really liked to play, but a small injury forces me to rest a bit, so I cannot be there. I will support you and encourage you from here like any other supporter,” Messi expressed. This statement underscores not only his commitment to the team but also the extent of his frustration at missing such pivotal games.
This will be another chapter in Messi's ongoing struggle with injuries as he approaches the age of 38. Despite his phenomenal performance when on the pitch, including a goal in his latest game against Atlanta, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that his body is reminding him of his advancing years. After just playing the full match where he scored, he is now dealing with muscular discomfort and has had to take time off to recover.
Messi's fitness concerns have led to nine periods of forced rest in the past year, amounting to 132 days on the sidelines and affecting 29 matches. Such interruptions have provoked frustration among fans who pay to see the world-renowned player take the field, particularly in Major League Soccer, where ticket prices are high.
His coach at Inter Miami, Javier Mascherano, recognized Messi's struggles, stating, “The goal by Leo is a goal that only the best player in the history of this sport could have scored.” This is a testament to the heights Messi has reached, yet also a sobering reminder that he is not infallible.
Argentina currently sits at the top of the South American qualifying zone with 25 points accrued over 12 matches, ahead of their rivals Uruguay, Ecuador, and Colombia. The pressure is on the remaining players to step up in Messi’s absence. Should Argentina successfully navigate this window, they could increasingly secure their spot in the upcoming World Cup, which is set to take place in North America next year.
This current round of qualifiers is crucial not just in terms of standings, but also in sending a message about Argentina’s status as a footballing powerhouse, especially following their 2022 World Cup victory. The matches against Uruguay and Brazil are always highly anticipated, making Messi's absence all the more significant for both players and fans alike.
Looking ahead, Messi's return is keenly anticipated, with every effort being made to preserve his fitness levels ahead of the World Cup. Argentina's medical staff, alongside those from Inter Miami, are mindful of the upcoming demanding schedules, including the new club World Cup this summer. As the squad prepares for the matches without their star, hope remains that Messi's perseverance will lead him back onto the field when it matters most.
With so much resting on these qualifiers, the team will have to channel the support from Messi and embody the fighting spirit he is known for. The Argentine fans will surely rally behind their national squad, keenly aware that the strength of their team lies not just in one individual but in the collective effort to secure World Cup qualification and dream of further glories in the next tournament.
