CONMEBOL
Will Lionel Messi play for Argentina against Bolivia in the Conmebol qualifiers?
The Inter Miami star could be rested on the second day of the road to the 2026 World Cup, with the game against Bolivia seen as the ideal scenario.
On Tuesday, the Bolivia vs Argentina match will take place in the Conmebol qualifiers for the North American 2026 World Cup. In this game, the possibility of not seeing Lionel Messi don the Albiceleste jersey seems to be increasing, as reported by Argentine media. It’s worth noting that Messi did travel to Bolivian territory with the intention of participating in the match.
Messi a doubt for Argentina
According to information from journalist Gastón Edul of TyC Sports, Lionel Scaloni has not yet confirmed the starting lineup for the match at the Hernando Siles Stadium, and Messi was not part of the group training session with the world champions. Additionally, Argentina’s insider noted that they experimented with a change in the tactical system, and tomorrow the decision will be made whether the ‘Number 10′ will play in La Paz.
Speculation about whether the captain of the Albiceleste will play in Bolivia tomorrow grew when he requested to be substituted near the end of the match against Ecuador, a moment that drew considerable attention. After that match, Messi emphasized in an interview with Sofía Martínez that this wouldn’t be the first time such a situation has occurred, referring to the demanding schedule.
It’s important to remember that the talisman made his debut with Inter Miami on 21 July 21 and has played 12 matches since then, which averages out to an official match every four days, considering that the Argentina vs Ecuador match took place on 7 September. Furthermore, the FC Barcelona legend did not undergo a preseason to start his journey in the United States.
What could Scaloni do to compensate for Messi’s absence?
The coach who led the Albiceleste to their third World Cup title could change the tactical formation to give his star player some initial rest. In this case, Lisandro Martínez would likely be included in the starting eleven, forming a defensive line of three alongside Cristian ‘Cuti’ Romero and Nicolás Otamendi.
This formation would have Messi on the bench, ready to make an impact as a substitute later in the match, if required.