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Lionel Messi delivered a standout performance in Argentina's commanding 5–0 victory over Zambia at La Bombonera on Tuesday, contributing a goal and an assist for the Albiceleste in what could have been his last appearance on Argentine home soil.
The 38-year-old has yet to confirm whether he will extend his international career and participate in the 2026 World Cup in North America this summer—which would mark a record sixth men's World Cup appearance (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022).
The talismanic forward, who will celebrate his 39th birthday during the tournament's group stage, has already tasted the ultimate glory on football's biggest stage, having led his nation to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022—an achievement that secured Messi his eighth Ballon d'Or. He netted twice in the final against France and was moved to tears before a fervent crowd.
Messi also stated last September that he intended to take things "day by day, game by game" regarding a decision on the 2026 World Cup. "This year we had so many matches, one after another. I just came off a break for a few days, then had another setback," he said at the time.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, however, offered reporters an update on Messi's World Cup situation following the team's victory on Tuesday evening.
What Did Scaloni Say?
Messi has a "desire" to feature at this summer's World Cup, according to Scaloni.
"It would be a privilege if Leo chooses to play in the World Cup," the Argentine coach said. "We all want him to enjoy it, and we're doing our best to keep him feeling good. He wants the same as us—now he's more at ease because he's already lifted a World Cup.
"His desire to be there and share the experience is present; we'll see what he ultimately decides, and we'll back him either way."
Scaloni's comments come just days after he reassured reporters: "I'll do everything in my power to make sure he's there. I believe that, for the sake of football, he should be there. All Argentines want to see him, and so does the rest of the world."
Two decades later. pic.twitter.com/AX8nPypgSv
Argentina, who recently called off the Finalissima scheduled for March 27 against Spain, will have no further fixtures before the World Cup begins. Given that Messi remained involved with Argentina throughout the latest phase of World Cup preparations, it would come as a surprise if he did not feature in the summer tournament.
The Albiceleste are placed in Group J, with their opening match against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City, Mo. The South American nation currently ranks No. 3 in the FIFA World Rankings, and Sports Illustrated writer Grey Whitebloom predicts the side to advance all the way to the 2026 World Cup final, where they could become the first men's team to win back-to-back World Cups since 1962.