Messi Triumphs Again: Argentina's Copa America Victory and the Road Ahead

Lionel Messi's illustrious career has reached new heights as he led the Argentine national team to their second Copa America title in July. However, the celebrations were tempered by Messi's injury during the final, which forced him to return to his club, Inter Miami, to recover. The 37-year-old maestro has left the door open regarding his future with the Albiceleste, as they prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in September.

Messi's Unwavering Commitment to the Albiceleste

Messi's dedication to the Argentine national team has been unwavering, even as he approaches the twilight of his career. Despite the injury setback, the iconic player has made it clear that he is committed to being ready for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. According to journalist Gaston Edul of TyC Sports, "Messi has stated his request to the AFA (Argentine Football Association), that he is currently in rehabilitation and has set his sights on being fully fit for Argentina's World Cup 2026 qualifiers in September."

Argentina's World Cup 2026 Qualifying Campaign

The Albiceleste's upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifying matches will be crucial as they look to secure their place in the prestigious tournament. The first match will see Argentina host Chile at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires on September 6th (Vietnam time). This match will also mark the return of veteran midfielder Angel Di Maria, who has announced his retirement from international football after the recent Copa America final.The second match will see Argentina travel to Barranquilla to face off against Colombia on September 11th. This is a rematch of the recent Copa America final, where Argentina emerged victorious with a 1-0 win courtesy of a goal from striker Lautaro Martinez.

Argentina's Dominance in the Qualifiers

In the South American World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign, Argentina currently leads the standings with 15 points from 5 wins and 1 loss. Meanwhile, Colombia sits in third place with 12 points, having recorded 3 wins and 3 draws. Chile, on the other hand, occupies the eighth position with 5 points, comprising 1 win, 2 draws, and 3 losses.The South American qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup involves 10 teams, with the top 6 teams securing direct qualification to the tournament. The team finishing seventh will compete in an intercontinental playoff for a chance to secure a spot in the World Cup.

Brazil's Pursuit of Redemption

Brazil, the perennial powerhouse of South American football, currently finds themselves in a precarious position, sitting in sixth place with 7 points. They are only 2 points ahead of Paraguay, who occupy the seventh spot. The Seleção will need to overcome the disappointment of their early exit from the recent Copa America and secure victories against Ecuador and Paraguay in September to improve their standing in the qualifiers.

Messi's Potential Involvement

According to Gaston Edul's revelations, Messi's participation in the upcoming World Cup 2026 qualifiers is likely to be focused on the match against Chile. The decision regarding his involvement in the Colombia clash will depend on his physical condition and the scheduling demands of his club, Inter Miami, in the MLS.Messi's unwavering commitment to the Argentine national team and his desire to lead them to success in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is a testament to his enduring passion for the sport. As the Albiceleste continue their quest for glory, the world eagerly awaits to see if Messi can once again inspire his team to greatness.