Lionel Messi will lead Argentina into the 2026 World Cup as defending champions after their dramatic triumph in Qatar in 2022, with expectations that this will likely be his ultimate look on the sport’s largest stage. Two weeks earlier than kickoff, the Albiceleste are set to face Mexico and one other CONCACAF opponent as a part of their preparation.
Argentina secured its World Cup ticket months in the past for the match co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, later topping the CONMEBOL qualifiers in August. With no official matches left on the calendar, the workforce will now depend on friendlies to remain sharp as they gear up for the worldwide stage.
In line with Argentine reporter Gastón Edul, Lionel Scaloni’s aspect will face Mexico and Honduras between June 1 and June 9, only one week earlier than the World Cup begins on June 11. Mexico is already certified as a number nation, whereas Honduras is at present main Group C in CONCACAF qualifying and nonetheless combating for its spot.
Venues have but to be confirmed, however each matches are anticipated to be performed in the US. Miami, a pure alternative given Messi’s ties with Inter Miami, and Las Vegas are among the many cities being thought-about to host the friendlies.
Lionel Messi of Argentina dealing with Mexico in 2022 World Cup.
Argentina final met Mexico within the group stage of the 2022 World Cup, the place Messi scored in a 2-0 win that deepened the historic rivalry between the 2 nations. Very like in Qatar, the Albiceleste plan to base themselves near the match venues to keep away from lengthy journey and regulate to the circumstances forward of the opener.
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What are Argentina’s subsequent friendlies?
Whereas different confederations like CONCACAF and UEFA are nonetheless in the course of qualifiers, CONMEBOL groups have already wrapped up that part. With the October worldwide break approaching, Argentina has lined up a number of friendlies.
The world champions will journey to the US to face Venezuela at Laborious Rock Stadium on Oct. 10, adopted by a match in opposition to Puerto Rico at Soldier Subject on Oct. 13. In November, Messi and firm are anticipated to go to Angola to probably face the hosts, earlier than touring on to India, the place the U.S. males’s nationwide workforce or Qatar are being thought-about as doable opponents.
