Lionel Messi reunited with Argentina's national team on Sunday, marking his first international appearance in seven months ahead of crucial FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia. The 37-year-old icon, fresh off a standout performance in Major League Soccer (MLS), brings renewed momentum to the reigning champions' campaign.
Messi last represented Argentina in November 2024 and missed March's fixtures due to injury. His recent form, however, has been electric: he earned MLS Player of the Week honors after scoring twice and assisting three goals in Inter Miami's 5-1 victory over Columbus Crew.
Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup as South America's top qualifier with 31 points, face Chile in Santiago on Thursday. The squad will be without key midfielders Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, and Leandro Paredes. Striker Lautaro Martinez will join late due to Inter Milan's UEFA Champions League final commitments but is expected to feature against Colombia in Buenos Aires next Tuesday.
With Messi's leadership and a mix of veteran prowess and emerging talent, Argentina aims to solidify its dominance in CONMEBOL qualifiers while testing strategies for the global stage.
