Lionel Messi’s absence from the latest Argentina national team roster for the upcoming CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia is a major blow for La Albiceleste. The star forward is still recovering from the ankle injury he sustained during the Copa América final in July. Despite attempting to play through the pain, Messi was forced off the field in the 66th minute. Inter Miami CF confirmed that he suffered ligament damage and is currently out indefinitely. Without Messi, Argentina will have to rely on other players to step up and fill the void.
With Lionel Messi unavailable, Argentina national team head coach Lionel Scaloni has selected a squad that includes some new faces. The absence of Ángel Di María, who announced his retirement ahead of the Copa América campaign, has also forced Scaloni to make some changes. The coach has included players such as Julián Álvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez, and Lautaro Martínez as his attacking options in the latest squad. This selection highlights Scaloni’s willingness to give opportunities to younger players and build for the future.
World Cup Qualifiers Standings
Argentina currently lead the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers with 15 points from six games. Their most recent victory against Brazil on Nov. 21, 2023, solidified their position at the top of the standings. Colombia, on the other hand, sit in third place with 12 points, while Chile are struggling in eighth place with just five points. The top six CONMEBOL teams will earn direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup, while the seventh-place team will advance to a playoff round for a chance to secure a spot in the tournament.
Scaloni has finalized his squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with a mix of experienced players and young talent. The goalkeepers include Emiliano Martínez, Gerónimo Rulli, Walter Benítez, and Juan Musso. In defense, players like Nicolás Otamendi, Cristian Romero, and Nicolás Tagliafico will play key roles. In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and Giovani Lo Celso will provide creativity, while forwards such as Lautaro Martínez and Nicolás González will be crucial in front of goal.
Overall, Messi’s absence presents a challenge for Argentina, but Scaloni’s squad selection shows that the team is ready to face it head-on. The upcoming World Cup qualifiers will be a test of their depth and resilience as they aim to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Leave a Reply