Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team are preparing for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a series of friendly matches in the United States, according to recent reports. These fixtures are part of the reigning world champions’ efforts to fine-tune their squad ahead of the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina Qualify Early for the 2026 World Cup
Argentina became the first nation to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, booking their place through the CONMEBOL qualifiers with four games to spare. The victory not only reinforced Argentina’s dominance in South American football. But also set the stage for Lionel Scaloni’s squad to focus on preparation and tactical cohesion.
Securing early qualification allows Argentina to carefully manage player fitness and explore potential strategies for defending the title they won at Qatar 2022. With Messi potentially playing a key role, these friendlies will serve as crucial practice before the high-stakes tournament.
Upcoming U.S. Friendlies: Dates and Locations
According to Argentine insider Gaston Edul, Argentina is scheduled to play two friendly matches in the United States between October 8 and 14. While the opponents have not been officially confirmed, the games are set to take place in Chicago and New Jersey.
- Earlier speculation suggested the friendlies could be held in China, but Edul clarified these reports were incorrect.
- Venezuela has been identified as a possible opponent for one of the U.S. fixtures. The Venezuelan team is managed by Argentine coach Fernando Batista and will also face Argentina in September during the final two matchdays of World Cup qualifying.
- Argentina’s other September qualifier is an away game against Ecuador, ensuring the squad remains battle-ready for the international stage.
Following the U.S. matches, Argentina plans two additional friendlies in November, facing Angola and Qatar. Both on the opponent’s home turf. These games are designed to test different tactical setups and give players exposure to diverse playing conditions ahead of the World Cup.
Lionel Messi: Will He Play in 2026?
While Messi continues to shine for Inter Miami, his participation in the 2026 World Cup is not officially confirmed. If he chooses to represent Argentina, Messi would be 39 years old when the tournament begins, prompting speculation about whether this could be his final World Cup appearance.
Despite the uncertainty, optimism surrounds Messi’s fitness and form:
- Ronaldo Nazario, the Brazilian legend, expressed confidence in Messi’s abilities:
“I see him in great shape, and I think he’ll arrive at the World Cup in good form too,” Ronaldo said. “I was watching Messi’s games at the Club World Cup, and he’s still got it. Every time he touches the ball, something interesting happens. He always reads the game well, understands the play that needs to be made. If he loses the ball, he tries to get it back. He sprints 30 or 40 meters.” - Argentina midfielder Giovani Lo Celso, speaking about Messi’s potential 2026 role, stated there is no doubt fans worldwide want to see the captain on the field again. Lo Celso emphasized Messi’s leadership and influence on team dynamics, which remain invaluable for Argentina’s ambitions.
The Significance of U.S. Friendlies
The upcoming U.S. matches will serve multiple purposes:
- Fitness and Recovery: Ensuring key players, including Messi, are in peak condition.
- Tactical Trials: Testing different formations, player combinations, and strategies under competitive conditions.
- International Exposure: Preparing the team for North American venues, climate, and pitch conditions they will face during the World Cup.
Historically, friendly matches ahead of major tournaments allow coaches to experiment without the pressure of competitive points. For Argentina, these games will be particularly important in maintaining momentum and assessing player readiness.
Analysis: Messi’s Potential Impact at 39
Messi’s presence in 2026 could dramatically influence Argentina’s campaign:
- Experience: His understanding of high-pressure games, including World Cup finals, provides a psychological edge.
- Versatility: Messi can operate in multiple attacking roles, offering flexibility in counterattacks, midfield buildup, and set-pieces.
- Inspiration: Beyond statistics, Messi’s mere presence can elevate the performance of younger players, fostering confidence and composure.
Although age may impact stamina, Messi’s game intelligence. Positioning, and ball control continue to make him a formidable threat on the field.
Looking Ahead: 2026 World Cup Preparations
With the tournament less than a year away, Argentina faces several key considerations:
- Monitoring player workloads and avoiding injuries during friendly matches.
- Solidifying a tactical framework that balances experience and youth.
- Finalizing squad selections while keeping options open for emerging talents.
The blend of early qualification, strategic friendlies, and potential Messi participation positions Argentina as one of the favorites for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Fans can expect a carefully prepared squad ready to defend its title, while the soccer world eagerly watches whether. Messi will grace the field one last time at the pinnacle of international football.
Conclusion
Argentina’s U.S. friendlies represent a critical phase in their World Cup preparations, offering both tactical practice and player assessment. While Messi’s participation remains unconfirmed, the footballing world is hopeful that the Argentine superstar will once again lead his nation, possibly at age 39, in pursuit of a historic back-to-back World Cup victory.
With high-stakes qualifiers, international friendlies, and strategic planning, Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina is shaping up to be a formidable force as the countdown to 2026 FIFA World Cup begins.
Also Read: FIFA Rankings October 2025 Spain Surpasses France, Argentina Remains at No. 1
