In a recent pre-World Cup friendly, Argentina secured a 2–1 victory over Mauritania last Saturday, with Lionel Messi entering the pitch as a substitute after the break. Questions immediately arose as to why the 38-year-old superstar did not start in front of the home crowd at La Bombonera.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni addressed the issue during a press conference, confirming that Messi will indeed start in the upcoming fixture against Zambia. The decision, he explained, was based on multiple factors, including Messi’s age and ongoing participation in Major League Soccer (MLS), which necessitates careful management of his playing time. Moreover, Mauritania, ranked 115th in the FIFA rankings, presented an opponent against whom resting Messi for the first half was a logical strategy.
Scaloni also hinted at strategic planning for the March international break. Argentina has one more friendly scheduled, again at La Bombonera, which will serve as the team’s final home match before the 2026 World Cup. Naturally, this will be the occasion when fans expect to see Messi on the field from the very start.
Mauritania versus Argentina may have allowed Messi to start, but the upcoming Zambia match holds greater significance. Ranked 81st, Zambia represents a stronger challenge and provides a more emotionally resonant farewell match at home before the World Cup. In addition, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) reportedly plans a cultural event prior to the Zambia game to bid farewell and good luck to the squad.
Argentina’s Upcoming Matches
| Date | Time (Bangladesh Standard Time) | Opponent | Venue | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 April 2026 | 05:15 | Zambia | La Bombonera | Messi to start; majority of regular starters expected |
| TBD | TBD | Serbia | Away | Friendly with full 26-man World Cup squad |
| TBD | TBD | TBD | Away | Friendly with full 26-man World Cup squad |
During the Mauritania match, Scaloni rotated several players to give opportunities to others, reflecting his ongoing assessment of squad depth. He also confirmed that a preliminary list of 55 players has been submitted to the AFA for FIFA approval, with final cuts to be made closer to the tournament, forming the 26-man World Cup squad.
Argentina’s players expressed some dissatisfaction with their performance against Mauritania, and Scaloni acknowledged this, saying, “The positive aspect is that the players themselves recognised we did not play well. I hope we return to familiar form in the next match.”
The press conference also addressed the status of 23-year-old forward Joaquín Panichelli, whose World Cup hopes have been dashed by injury. Scaloni expressed heartfelt concern, stating, “It is very difficult to accept. He came to speak with us, which was deeply moving. He deserved better, but there will be future opportunities. Truly, this is a significant blow for us.”
Argentina will face Zambia at 05:15 BST on 1 April, before playing two further friendlies—one confirmed against Serbia and another awaiting confirmation of the opponent. Both matches will feature the confirmed 26-man World Cup squad, providing crucial preparation ahead of the tournament.
This carefully structured schedule and strategic rotation highlight Scaloni’s focus on balancing player fitness, emotional engagement, and tactical readiness as Argentina prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.