Mar 19 (V7N) – Lionel Messi has been ruled out of Argentina’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers due to injury, dealing a major blow to fans anticipating his performance against Uruguay and Brazil. Inter Miami authorities confirmed the news, stating that Messi has suffered a thigh muscle injury and will remain in the United States for recovery.

This absence marks a historic moment in football, as the much-anticipated Argentina vs. Brazil clash will be without both Messi and Neymar for the first time in nearly 20 years. Neymar had already been ruled out due to a previous injury, leaving the stage without two of the sport’s biggest icons.

Messi’s electrifying performance against Atlanta United in his last club match had fans in awe. However, reports now confirm that he played the full 90 minutes despite pain and discomfort. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has since announced a 25-man squad that excludes Messi for their matches against Uruguay (March 23) and Brazil (March 26).

A Historic Absence in Brazil-Argentina Rivalry

The football world has rarely witnessed a Brazil-Argentina match without either Messi or Neymar in the last two decades. The last time both stars were absent was on June 29, 2005, in the FIFA Confederations Cup final, where Brazil defeated Argentina 4-1.

  • Messi made his debut for Argentina on August 17, 2005, in a friendly against Hungary.
  • His first competitive match against Brazil came on September 2, 2006, in a 3-0 loss at the Emirates Stadium.
  • Neymar debuted for Brazil on August 10, 2010, in a friendly against the United States.
  • His first Argentina clash was on November 17, 2010, in a friendly, which Brazil lost.

Upcoming Fixtures Without Messi & Neymar

  • March 23: Argentina vs. Uruguay (Montevideo)
  • March 23: Brazil vs. Colombia
  • March 26: Argentina vs. Brazil (Buenos Aires)

Argentina currently leads the South American qualifiers with 25 points from 12 matches, while Brazil sits in fifth place with 18 points.

Despite Messi and Neymar’s absence, the clash between Argentina and Brazil remains one of the most heated rivalries in football. Fans will now turn their attention to new stars who must rise to the occasion in their absence.

END/MSS/AJ