Argentina has officially secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first team from South America to achieve this milestone. The reigning champions have shown remarkable performance during the CONMEBOL qualifying rounds for the tournament, which will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. They capped off their qualification celebrations with a resounding 4-1 victory over their fierce rivals, Brazil, in Buenos Aires.

Throughout the match, Argentina displayed a commanding performance, outshining a team typically regarded as the powerhouse of South American football. Even in the absence of their star player, Lionel Messi, the offense was highly effective. Goals were scored by Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Giuliano Simeone.

Following this match and the successful qualification for the World Cup, Argentinian coach Lionel Scaloni was questioned about Messi's availability for the tournament, as he had recently missed the latest international break due to an injury. However, Scaloni remained non-committal.

"We will see what happens; there is still ample time," Scaloni remarked during a press conference. "We need to focus on one game at a time, or else we will be discussing the same issue for the remainder of the year."

‘Let’s not drive him crazy…'

Argentina's victory in Qatar in 2022 was regarded as a storybook triumph for Messi, particularly as it could be his final World Cup at the age of 35 during the tournament. Nevertheless, Messi has continued to demonstrate his ability to compete at the highest level.

Currently playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, he will have the chance to represent Argentina in the nation he now calls home.

However, Scaloni expressed disinterest in discussing Messi's possible involvement in the 2026 World Cup, insisting that such inquiries should cease. "We need to give him space; we will see," he stated. "He will make his own decision when he is ready; let's not overwhelm him with this."

Should Messi participate in the 2026 World Cup, he would become the first player to compete in six different World Cup tournaments, with his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo also poised to achieve this milestone.

While admiration and respect for Messi remain strong as he nears his 38th birthday, Argentina has proven that they possess ample talent to succeed even in his absence.

Read Also: Bhaichung Bhutia's Bold Take: 'Sunil Chhetri Might Suffer Head Haemorrhage by Second Retirement'

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!