Messi Out with Injury as Argentina Chase World Cup Spot

Published on March 18, 2025

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s crucial World Cup qualifiers this month after suffering a groin strain in Inter Miami’s victory over Atlanta at the weekend, his club confirmed on Monday.

Messi as been left out of Argentina’s squad for their upcoming champions’ clash against Uruguay on Friday, which is followed by a showdown with Brazil on March 25.

According to Inter Miami, a scan had revealed that Messi suffered a “low-grade injury in the adductor muscle” in the 2-1 win on Sunday. The statement did not provide a timeline for his return, but noted that “his clinical progress and response to treatment will determine his availability for competition.”

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After missing three games for Inter earlier this month, the 37-year-old returned with a goal off the bench in a CONCACAF Champions Cup win. However, his latest injury has raised concerns about his availability for Argentina’s crucial World Cup qualifiers.

Messi’s absence is a significant blow to Argentina, who are seeking to secure their spot in next year’s World Cup. The defending champions currently lead the 10-team South American qualifying group by five points.

Argentina, the defending World Cup champions, can secure qualification for next year’s tournament with victories in their next two games. They currently lead the 10-team South American qualifying group by five points ahead of their match against Uruguay in Montevideo.

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The top six teams qualify directly for the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The seventh-placed team is currently Bolivia with 13 points.

After 12 rounds, Messi is the top scorer in the competition with six goals. His absence will be deeply felt by Argentina, who are also without injured Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Paulo Montiel.

Brazil, meanwhile, will be without 33-year-old Neymar, who has suffered a thigh injury and postponed his return to the national team. Brazil is currently fifth in the qualifying group, seven points behind Argentina.

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