While Argentina bowed 1-0 in Ecuador to conclude its qualifying campaign at the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi shone … by his absence. Staying on the bench after a last tribute to the public of Buenos Aires against Venezuela, the captain did not set foot on the lawn. However, this evening will remain in the history of his career.
An unprecedented accomplishment for Messi
Because despite this rest granted by Lionel Scaloni, Messi finished top scorer in the South American qualifiers, with eight achievements. An honorary title that he had never conquered in more than twenty years in the Albiceleste jersey. A first personal first, even if this total represents the lowest for a top scorer since the implementation of the current format in 1996.
This choice to preserve it illustrates the millimeter management of a player who goes on injuries and efforts between Argentina and Inter Miami. Scaloni preferred to offer him breathing, convinced that the essential was elsewhere. Messi had already marked the spirits a few days earlier, scoring a double against Venezuela, a match which could remain like his last big appearance at home with the selection.
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Uncertainty around its international future
This parenthesis mainly feeds speculations. At 38, Messi has not yet confirmed his presence for the 2026 World Cup, where Argentina will defend his crown. This title of top scorer in the Conmebol zone, obtained on the wire, recalls that even at the twilight of its international career, the Pulga retains a unique ability to make history.
In the immediate future, its horizon is in the United States, where Inter Miami is fighting to win the MLS Cup. As of Saturday, Messi should find the field against Charlotte. If its future with Argentina remains vague, a certainty remains: its legend continues to write, sometimes even without having to play.
