Lionel Messi is still inspiring as Argentina begins its journey to defend their world championship title. Although it’s uncertain whether the 36-year-old legend will play in the next World Cup in the summer of 2026.
Last year, Messi led the Argentine national team to their third World Cup title in history, and he continues to help the team top the South American qualifying table for the 2026 tournament. The 36-year-old superstar is currently one of the top scorers in the qualifiers with three goals, tied with Uruguay midfielder Nicolas de la Cruz, and has helped Argentina become the only team to have won all four of their first matches.
Argentina is currently leading the pack of 10 teams in the South American World Cup qualifying round with 12 points after four games. Uruguay, Brazil, and Venezuela all have 7 points. Colombia has 6 points, while Ecuador, Paraguay, and Chile have 4 points. Peru has one point and Bolivia has yet to earn any points. The 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will include 48 teams for the first time, meaning that 6 of the top South American teams will directly qualify. The team that finishes in 7th place will compete in an intercontinental playoff for a spot.
As Argentina sets higher expectations for their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, there’s a constant question of whether the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will continue to defend his title with the national team. Left-back Nicolas Tagliafico has outlined a perfect roadmap in La Nacion, stating that “if we don’t win the World Cup in Qatar, he probably won’t be here anymore. So motivation is key right now. If we keep winning, I think he could extend a little more. He still wants to enjoy victory. If we win the Copa America 2024, I’m sure that’ll be the motivation for Leo to continue.”
Messi wrapped up his season with Inter Miami on October 21st and may play his remaining two matches of the calendar year when Argentina faces Uruguay in Buenos Aires on November 16th, followed by an away match against Brazil at Maracana Stadium on November 21st. In the new year, Argentina’s national team has scheduled two friendly matches (dates to be determined) during FIFA Days in March before focusing on their journey to defend their Copa America title, which will take place in the United States from June 20th to July 14th.
