Lionel Messi delivered a stellar performance in what might be his final home game for Argentina, scoring two goals in a dominant 3-0 victory over Venezuela. However, a significant question looms: could this be one of his very last appearances for Argentina overall? At 38, Messi continues to showcase exceptional skill for both his national team and Inter Miami, yet injuries have increasingly taken their toll over the years. These recurring physical issues might compel him to retire, potentially before the 2026 World Cup.
Following the match, Messi candidly discussed his physical condition, raising doubts about his participation in the upcoming World Cup.
“Given my age, the most logical outcome is that I won`t make it. But we`re almost there, so I`m excited and motivated to play. As I always say, I take it day by day, match by match, guided by how I feel. Day by day, trying to feel good and, above all, being honest with myself,” Messi stated.
“When I feel good, I enjoy the game. But when I don`t, honestly, I don`t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don`t feel well. So, we`ll see. I haven`t made a final decision about the World Cup. Match by match, I`ll finish the [MLS] season, then I`ll have preseason, and there will be six months left. So, we`ll see how I feel. Hopefully, I`ll have a good preseason in 2026, finish this MLS season well, and then I`ll decide.”
The objective, of course, is to play, but as Messi emphasized, injuries are accumulating and making it increasingly challenging. In July, Messi already missed four games for Inter Miami due to muscular problems, and such issues are becoming more frequent with age. With “The Herons” still facing 10 more regular season matches, the burden on Messi`s body will only intensify, which is why he feels the need to assess his condition before the World Cup. A World Cup without Messi would certainly feel unusual, but at this point, it remains a distinct possibility. Alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi could become the first player to feature in six different World Cups if he takes part for Argentina in 2026.
How to Watch Ecuador vs. Argentina
Date: Tuesday, September 9
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha, Guayaquil, Ecuador
Stream: Fanatiz
Odds: Ecuador +220; Draw +165; Argentina +170
