Lionel Messi has been excluded from Argentina’s squad for World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to an injury. Argentina leads the qualifying group despite this setback, with key players like Paulo Dybala also injured. Their next games are critical for securing a World Cup spot for 2026.
Lionel Messi has been omitted from Argentina’s national squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to ongoing fitness issues. Recently, he sustained an injury during Inter Miami’s match against Atlanta United, leading to his exclusion from the team, according to reports. This marks the latest in a series of missed matches for Messi this season. He had previously pulled a muscle and missed three Inter Miami games at the start of March, only returning to score in a recent CONCACAF Champions Cup match.
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina is performing well in the World Cup qualifiers, currently leading the South American group with 25 points from 12 matches. Uruguay, while solid, trails with 20 points. Argentina’s next two games are crucial as they aim to secure a berth in the 2026 World Cup. They will first face Uruguay in Montevideo before hosting Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 25. Messi remains the top scorer in the qualifiers with six goals, showcasing his significant contribution when fit.
Alongside Messi, Argentina will also miss the services of injured Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Paulo Montiel. Brazil faces its own challenges, as Neymar has been sidelined due to a thigh injury. The qualifier landscape presents an opportunity for both teams amid injuries to key players.
The Argentine squad for the upcoming matches includes notable players across various positions. Goalkeepers include Emiliano Martinez and Geronimo Rulli, while defenders comprise Nahuel Molina and Cristian Romero among others. The midfield features Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernández, and forwards include Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez, ensuring a robust lineup despite absences.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s withdrawal from the Argentina squad for the crucial World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil emphasizes his ongoing struggle with fitness following an injury sustained in a recent match. Argentina is currently performing strong in the qualifiers, leading the table with Messi as their top scorer. However, key injuries to other prominent players highlight the challenges faced as they aim for World Cup qualification.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
