Lionel Messi, the iconic Inter Miami forward, will miss Argentina’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Uruguay and Brazil after suffering a groin strain. The injury, sustained during Miami’s recent MLS victory over Atlanta United, has sidelined the 37-year-old star, who had only recently returned to action following a brief period of rest.
Details of Messi’s Injury
Inter Miami confirmed that Messi is dealing with a “low-grade injury” to his adductor muscle, revealed through scans conducted after Sunday’s match. While the club did not provide a specific timeline for his recovery, they stated that his availability would depend on how he responds to treatment in the coming days.
Messi had missed three consecutive matches for Inter Miami earlier this month before returning to score off the bench in their Concacaf Champions Cup win against Cavalier SC. He later rejoined the starting lineup for Miami’s MLS victory but reportedly aggravated his adductor during the game.
Impact on Argentina’s Squad
Messi’s absence comes at a critical juncture for Argentina, who currently lead South America’s World Cup qualifying standings. With six goals in the qualifiers so far—the highest in the competition—Messi has been instrumental in guiding Argentina to a five-point lead over second-placed Uruguay and a seven-point advantage over Brazil, who sit fifth.
Argentina faces Uruguay away on March 21 and hosts Brazil in Buenos Aires on March 25. Both matches offer an opportunity for the reigning world champions to secure early qualification for the 2026 tournament. However, they will have to navigate these fixtures without their captain and leading scorer.
The Albiceleste will also be missing Roma forward Paulo Dybala and River Plate defender Gonzalo Montiel due to injuries. Meanwhile, Brazil will be without Neymar, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate, who is recovering from a thigh injury.
Argentina’s Path Forward
Despite Messi’s absence, Argentina remains well-positioned to maintain their dominance in the qualifiers. Head coach Lionel Scaloni will rely on other key players like Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Enzo Fernández to step up in these crucial encounters.
As fans await Messi’s return to full fitness, Argentina will aim to capitalize on their strong form and secure maximum points in this window without their talismanic leader.
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