All eyes on Lionel Messi as Argentina takes on Chile in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier
Captain Lionel Messi is expected to be ready to start after a seven-month absence as Argentina plays rival Chile in their FIFA World Cup qualifier on Thursday.
The 37-year-old Messi seems to be in shape to return for Argentina. His most recent game for the World Cup champion was in November 2024.
A muscle injury prevented him from playing in the March doubleheader, in which Lionel Scaloni's team secured its spot to defend its title.
Argentina leads the round-robin competition with 31 points in 14 matches. Ecuador (23), Uruguay (21), Brazil (21), Paraguay (21), and Colombia (20) could secure direct births this month.
The seventh-place team, which will advance to an international playoff, could be Venezuela (15 points), Bolivia (14) or even Peru (10) and Chile (10).
ALSO READ: Chile vs Argentina LIVE Streaming info — When, where to watch FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier?
Messi's return will be one of the thee changes Argentina is expected to make for the Chile game; its first training session was an indication.
Defenders Kevin Lomónaco (Independiente) and Mariano Troilo (Belgrano), and striker Franco Mastantuono, the 17-year-old River Plate targeted by major European clubs, are likely to get tested.
Scaloni will have to decide who will replace defender Nicolás Otamendi, who is suspended for the match at the National Stadium in Santiago. His main options are Leonardo Balerdi and Facundo Medina.
Suspensions and injuries will also force Argentina to change its midfield. Alexis Mac Allister was ruled out, while Enzo Fernández and Leandro Paredes are suspended.
Frequent starter Rodrigo De Paul is expected to be joined by Giovanni Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios.
(with inputs from The Associated Press)
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