For the first time since mid-July, Lionel Messi is back in the Argentina team and only played 1-1 in Venezuela. Despite the draw, the world champions remain top of the South American World Cup qualifying table.
Back on the ball for Argentina for the first time since Copa America: Lionel Messi, here against Jose Martinez.
picture alliance / Anadolu
Argentina’s national team had to settle for a draw against Venezuela as they qualified for the 2026 World Cup. The match in the Venezuelan city of Maturin ended 1-1. After heavy rain, the game started late because the water had to be removed from the field.
Benfica Lisbon’s Otamendi scored for the reigning world champions in the 13th minute. Rondon equalized for the hosts in the 65th minute. When captain Lionel Messi returned to the Albiceleste after a two-month injury layoff, national coach Lionel Scaloni’s side maintained their place at the top of the table in South America. Argentina will face Bolivia in Buenos Aires next week.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez suspended for obscene gestures
Messi appeared in the Argentina team for the first time since mid-July. He suffered an ankle injury in the Copa America final and was sidelined for around two months.
After recovering, the star striker has been back in action for his club Inter Miami since mid-September. In the match against Venezuela, the Albiceleste had to do without goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who was banned for two games for obscene gestures.
Argentina lead the South American table to qualify for the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico with 19 points after nine games. The first six of the ten teams qualify directly for the finals, the team in seventh place has to go into relegation.