Lionel Messi will start for Argentina against Colombia in the upcoming CONMEBOL 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers match on Tuesday, June 9, at Estadio Monumental, coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed. This match comes even though Argentina has already secured qualification for the World Cup in the United States next year.
Argentina currently leads the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers table, having amassed 34 points from 15 games. The game against Colombia is considered a dead rubber as both teams have different stakes, but Messi’s presence is highly anticipated as he aims to extend his impressive performance streak.
Recent Performances and Starting Role Confirmed for Messi
In Argentina’s previous qualifier on June 5, they narrowly defeated Chile 1-0 thanks to a goal by Julian Alvarez, but Messi did not start that match and was brought on in the second half, replacing Nico Paz in the 57th minute. For this upcoming game, Scaloni has confirmed that Messi will begin in the starting lineup.
The 37-year-old has been in excellent form, scoring five goals and providing three assists in his last three MLS matches, which earned him the MLS Player of the Month award for May. Messi is looking to continue his strong run and boost his World Cup qualifying statistics, already having six goals and three assists from 10 appearances in the qualifiers.
Messi missed the previous meeting against Colombia in September 2024 due to a ligament injury but is now fit and expected to lead Argentina’s attack at home.
Contract Status and Future Outlook for Messi
Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami is due to expire at the end of this year; however, reports indicate he is likely to renew his contract, allowing him to remain with the MLS club through the 2026 World Cup. With Argentina preparing to defend their world title in the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Messi’s continued participation will be crucial.
Overview of Messi’s Achievements with Argentina
Lionel Messi is widely considered Argentina’s greatest player, holding the record as the nation’s top goalscorer with 112 goals and 61 assists in 192 appearances. Throughout his international career, he has collected six major trophies.
His earliest success came with the FIFA U-20 World Cup title in 2005, followed by a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in men’s football. After years without silverware at senior level, Messi finally led Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America. He then helped the team win the 2022 Finalissima before captaining Argentina to their 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph. Most recently, he secured his second Copa America title in 2024, further cementing his legacy.