By Lionel Messi has been left out of Argentina’s squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle strain. The decision was made by head coach Lionel Scaloni, and Messi will stay in the United States to recover.
The 37-year-old forward recently scored a spectacular goal in Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer. However, reports suggest he experienced muscle discomfort after the match, leading to his exclusion from the national team.
Argentina currently leads the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 25 points after 12 games. They are set to face second-placed Uruguay on Friday before hosting Brazil on March 25. Notably, Brazil will also be without Neymar, who is out due to a muscle injury.
In a similar setback, Mozambican captain Dominguêz (Elias Pelembe) will miss his country’s World Cup qualifier against Uganda. The 41-year-old couldn’t secure a visa for the game, which will be held in Egypt due to damage to the Zimpeto Stadium in Maputo.
Mozambique’s coach Chiquinho Conde expressed frustration, emphasizing that captains should take their responsibilities seriously. “When we are captains, we have additional responsibilities. We must have the humility to understand that when we are asked for documentation to obtain a visa, we must be the first to set an example,” he stated.
