Messi played in the opening match of the 2026 World Cup qualifying round in South America on September 8, helping Argentina win 1-0 against Ecuador, scoring the only goal in the match. But in the next match (3-0 win over Bolivia on September 13), he was not registered to play due to injury and fatigue.
Messi still returned to the Argentina team despite being injured
The famous Argentine player has been absent for 4 matches so far in the Inter Miami club squad. He only played about 37 minutes in the 4-0 win over Toronto FC on September 21, then stopped playing and it is unclear when he will recover 100% from his injury.
However, coach Lionel Scaloni still called Messi back to the Argentina team. While Lisandro Martinez, Angel Di Maria and Angel Correa are absent due to injury.
According to Inter Miami coach Tata Martino: “Messi is still recovering from his injury. We will evaluate him on October 6 to see if he is eligible to play in the match against FC Cincinnati this weekend.” no (at 6:30 on October 8). We hope Messi will come out and play for a few minutes.”
List of Argentina national team
Inter Miami just lost to Chicago Fire FC 1-4 away from home, making their hopes of winning a play-off spot to compete for the MLS Cup championship slim. If Messi returns in time and helps Inter Miami win against FC Cincinnati, they will have two more matches against Charlotte FC on October 19 and October 22 to hold on to hope and both need to win.
Meanwhile, the Argentina team plays two qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup in South America against Paraguay (October 13) and Peru (October 18). Coach Lionel Scaloni said: “Messi is always important to us. His presence, no matter the situation, brings motivation to his teammates.”
