Lionel Messi Excluded from Argentina Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Lionel Messi has been omitted from Argentina’s squad for World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle injury. With Argentina currently leading the qualifying group, the absence of Messi and other players like Paulo Dybala may not significantly impact their campaign. The national team remains focused on securing qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

Lionel Messi has been excluded from Argentina’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to ongoing fitness issues. Reports indicate he sustained an injury during a recent match with Inter Miami against Atlanta United, impacting his selection for national duty. This absence marks the latest addition to a series of matches he has missed this season due to physical ailments.

Despite starting against Atlanta United and scoring a goal, Messi experienced muscle discomfort post-game, leading to his omission from the national team. However, Argentina currently sits atop the South American qualifying group with 25 points, which may mitigate the impact of Messi’s absence. The top six teams will qualify for the 2026 World Cup, with Argentina looking to secure their place in the upcoming matches.

Argentina will face Uruguay in Montevideo, followed by a home match against Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 25. Messi, the leading scorer in the qualifying round with six goals, is not the only key player absent, as Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Paulo Montiel will also miss the fixtures. Meanwhile, Brazil will also feel the absence of Neymar, who is sidelined due to a recent thigh injury.

The list of players selected for the Argentina squad includes goalkeepers Emiliano Martinez, Geronimo Rulli, and Walter Benitez, surrounded by defenders, midfielders, and forwards from various clubs in Europe and Italy, indicating a strong lineup despite missing key players.

In summary, Lionel Messi has been excluded from Argentina’s upcoming matches against Uruguay and Brazil due to injury concerns, alongside other absentees. Despite this, Argentina remains in a strong position in the qualifying round. The team is poised to secure their World Cup qualification, demonstrating resilience even in the face of notable player absences.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com