Will Lionel Messi play tonight for Argentina vs Ecuador in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers?

Messi scored a brace in his last outing for the national team.

Argentina will get the opportunity to defend their World Cup title in 2026, after dominating the qualifying phase with a record of 12 wins, two draws, and three losses in 17 games.

Argentina’s all-time top scorer and appearance holder, Lionel Messi, played in his final competitive home game for his nation on Thursday. It made the match against Venezuela emotional, even though qualifying was guaranteed back in March.

La Albiceleste, who have amassed 38 points from 17 games, are currently getting ready for their final game of a successful qualifying campaign.

Also read: Ecuador vs Argentina Preview, prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Will Messi play tonight?

Lionel Messi, however, has been granted permission to take some time off after his recent injury problems at Inter Miami. Therefore, he will not play in the match.

After scoring in his substitute appearance on Thursday, Lautaro Martinez is expected to be included in the starting lineup since Messi is not available.

Julian Alvarez, a forward for Atletico Madrid who is hoping to increase his 13-goal international total, will be in a front-two combo with the Inter Milan striker.

Messi and the 2026 World Cup

Messi is most likely to participate in the FIFA World Cup in 2026 before ending his international career. But when he spoke in September 2025, Messi raised some questions about whether he would play in the championship the following summer.

“Because of my age, the most logical thing is that I won’t make it,” Messi said after scoring twice in a World Cup qualifier against Venezuela. “But we’re almost there, so I’m excited and motivated to play it.”

“Like I always say, I go day by day, match by match, going by how I feel. Day by day, trying to feel good and above all, being honest with myself.”

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