Argentina are set for two highly anticipated matchups in the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers—first against Uruguay and then a South American derby showdown with Brazil. Fans were eager to see Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr. go head-to-head, but both superstars will miss the fixtures due to injury.
Messi addressed his absence through an Instagram Story, sharing a message of support for the soccer national team and its fans. “It’s a shame to miss these two special matches against Uruguay and Brazil with the national team. As always, I wanted to be there, but at the last moment, a minor injury forced me to take a short break before returning to play. I’ll be cheering from here like any other fan. Vamos, Argentina!”
Despite Lionel Messi’s absence, Argentina will look to maintain their strong World Cup qualifying campaign as they prepare to face two of their biggest rivals. Notably, La Albiceleste will play second-place Uruguay on the road before hosting Brazil. However, the highly anticipated clash will lack its usual spectacle with both teams missing their biggest stars.
Why won’t Messi be available?
According to journalist Gastón Edul of TyC Sports, Messi underwent medical tests following his latest MLS match with Inter Miami. The results revealed a minor muscle injury, ruling him out of Argentina’s upcoming qualifiers.
Neymar Jr. of Brazil greets Lionel Messi of Argentina as Lautaro Martinez of Argentina prepares for kick off prior to the final of Copa America Brazil 2021 between Brazil and Argentina at Maracana Stadium on July 10, 2021 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
“Confirmed: Leo Messi will not play with the Argentine National Team against Uruguay and Brazil,” Edul reported via X (@gastonedul). Messi later addressed the situation, making it clear that his absence is strictly due to football-related reasons.
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The last time Messi missed a game for Argentina
The last time Messi was absent from Argentina’s lineup was on September 10, 2024, in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia. Without their captain, Argentina struggled, suffering a 2-1 defeat against James Rodríguez and company. However, Lionel Scaloni’s tactical adjustments in that match offer insight into how the team might approach these upcoming fixtures.
In that game, Scaloni made a significant formation shift. Argentina’s starting XI featured Emiliano Martínez; Gonzalo Montiel, Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernández; Nico González, Lautaro Martínez, and Julián Álvarez. This time, Scaloni could opt to introduce Atlético Madrid’s rising star Giuliano Simeone, testing him on the right flank while deploying a lone striker up front.
