Lionel Messi’s preparation for the 2026 World Cup continues in the US, as Argentina will get set to play friendlies in opposition to Venezuela and Puerto Rico through the October worldwide break. Viewing these matches as key tune-ups for the upcoming match, head coach Lionel Scaloni made his message clear to Messi and the remainder of the squad forward of the video games.
Argentina wrapped up CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying atop the desk with 38 factors, displaying its dominance throughout the area with 12 wins, two attracts, and 4 defeats. Now, solely friendlies stay earlier than the 2026 World Cup kicks off, however even with out factors on the road, these upcoming matches will likely be essential for the staff’s continued preparation.
Talking at an occasion in Miami, Scaloni confused the significance of each match within the Albiceleste jersey: “We really feel that each time we play sporting this jersey, whether or not it’s an official competitors or a pleasant, it’s one thing distinctive. Having the ability to play exterior our nation as effectively, and giving Argentinians dwelling overseas the prospect to return and watch us, is particular. For us, there are by no means any friendlies — not for the gamers both, they usually know that very effectively.”
The Argentina coach additionally emphasised that these video games are very important alternatives for gamers to show themselves forward of the World Cup. “They’re in an necessary second looking forward to what’s coming, they usually know there’s rather a lot at stake. On our aspect, we’ll attempt to ensure the followers benefit from the match and know that the gamers will give their all,” he acknowledged.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni of Argentina.
For the rest of 2025, Argentina may have two worldwide breaks — in October and November — that means at the very least 4 extra friendlies earlier than the yr ends. After dealing with Venezuela and Puerto Rico within the U.S., the world champions will play in Angola and India subsequent month, giving Scaloni extra probabilities to judge gamers preventing for a spot within the last World Cup roster.
see additionally
Lionel Messi faces sudden change in US tour as Argentina vs. Puerto Rico moved from Chicago
Scaloni maintaining a tally of injured gamers
Through the first coaching periods, Argentina wasn’t capable of work at full energy, as a number of call-ups both performed on Sunday or handled minor accidents over the previous week. Whereas a number of stay uncertain, Scaloni made it clear he’ll deal with the squad cautiously for the upcoming friendlies within the U.S.
Requested whether or not Messi will function, the coach stated each resolution will depend upon participant health: “We’ll discuss with him and with everybody. The thought is to not take dangers with any participant. They’re friendlies, and naturally the nationwide staff is necessary, but when anybody has even the slightest situation — as within the case of Marcos Acuña — we gained’t take any dangers. But when they’re match, then in fact they’ll play.”
