Messi, 38, is the number 1 star of the Argentina team. Since his first international cap in 2005, he has scored 112 goals in 192 international matches.
With Argentina, Messi has won the World Cup once, won two Copa Americas, in addition to a Finalissima title. However, due to his age and many injuries, Messi has missed many matches for the Argentina team.
In March 2025, the superstar was absent when Argentina beat Uruguay 1-0 and beat Brazil 4-1. These two matches also helped Scaloni's team soon qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
In the most recent match against Chile 1-0, Messi only entered the field from the 57th minute.
Sharing before Argentina's match against Colombia, coach Scaloni said that Messi will start. When asked whether the team still depends on Messi, the tactician emphasized: The Argentine team is at a time when they can play in the same way regardless of whether Leo is there.
Previously, it was more complicated because it may have to change some players, but now it is not necessary anymore. Thats very good.
In the first leg, Argentina lost 0-1 to Colombia. With home matches, Messi and his teammates have many opportunities to repay the debt of the previous match.
"The Colombian team is a very strong team. They are on par with the strongest teams in the world. We have faced Colombia many times recently. They are a team with great players and a very clear style of play, said Mr. Scaloni.
According to this strategist, he will not soon withdraw the list for the 2026 World Cup but will wait for the players until the last minute. Argentina is the defending champion and is considered the number 1 candidate for next year's tournament, thanks to its convincing performance over the past time.
The Argentina vs Colombia match will take place at 7:00 a.m. on June 11.
