Argentina are set to face Uruguay on Friday, March 21 in a highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier. The match will be filled with intensity, passion and hopefully, plenty of goals. However, the main talking point before the match would be whether Lionel Messi starts against Uruguay or not.
Will Lionel Messi play against Uruguay in FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers game?
During Inter Miami's recent clash against Atlanta United in the Major League Soccer (MLS), Lionel Messi felt discomfort in his adductor region as later he underwent medical tests. The results of the tests revealed that the 37-year-old forward has a minor muscle injury that would leave him out of the clash against Uruguay and Brazil both.
Lionel Messi is not the only player who will miss Argentina's clash against Uruguay. The Blue and White have Lautaro Martinez sidelined due to a muscle injury, while Paulo Dybala and Giovani Lo Celso will also miss the highly anticipated clash against Uruguay. Despite the injury issues Argentina face, Lionel Scaloni has depth on the bench which would fill the void and keep their momentum going.
Lionel Messi breaks his silence after his latest injury
Following his latest muscle injury he suffered against Atlanta United, Lionel Messi took to his social media account and posted an Instagram story as he shared a message of support for the team and the 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!
How has Argentina played without Lionel Messi?
The last time Lionel Messi missed a match for Argentina was back in September 2024. They lost that match 2-1 to Colombia. In that match, Argentina's attack was led by Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Gonzalez.
Despite the absence of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, Argentina remains at the top of the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points to their name. They have eight wins, one draw and three losses in the 12 matches that they have played so far. As Argentina are navigating through their latest injury issues, the team will look to extend their lead in the qualifiers and continue to push forward to secure a spot in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in United States, Mexico and Canada.