Argentina holds difficult recollections from 1994, when the United States last hosted the FIFA World Cup. Following the second group match, legendary player Diego Maradona was removed after a positive doping result. He never appeared in another World Cup game, and Argentina exited in the round of 16.
Thirty-two years on, the South American side seeks a better outcome for Maradona’s successor, Lionel Messi. Now approaching 39, Messi is expected to end his international career after the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
A victory would make Argentina the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive titles and bolster arguments for Messi as the greatest player ever.
Messi stated in a recent interview that he loves the game and will continue as long as possible, driven by his competitive nature.
After two decades with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami, Messi is managing a hamstring issue ahead of his sixth World Cup. He trained alone at the team camp in Kansas City.
Coach Lionel Scaloni noted that several players, including Messi, are not fully fit. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez suffered a finger fracture, while defenders Cristian Romero and others deal with injuries.
Argentina opens against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City, followed by matches versus Austria and Jordan. Scaloni has retained 17 players from the 2022 squad, citing their experience and commitment.
The team also won the 2024 Copa América and topped South American qualifying. Key attackers include Julián Álvarez, with three new players added to the roster. Ángel Di María’s absence is notable.
Messi has urged realistic expectations, acknowledging stronger rivals. He holds records for most World Cup appearances and is close to the all-time goal mark.
Scaloni expressed emotion about the team’s future without Messi.
