Argentina faced a setback in their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, drawing 1-1 with Venezuela during Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated return to the national team. The match took place in Maturin, Venezuela, and highlighted the challenges the reigning world champions face as they strive to secure their spot in the upcoming tournament.
Lionel Messi, who had missed Argentina’s previous fixtures due to injury, played a pivotal role in the early stages of the match. His free-kick in the 13th minute set up Nicolas Otamendi for a header that gave Argentina an early lead. However, Venezuela responded with resilience, and veteran striker Salomon Rondon equalized in the second half, heading in a cross from Yeferson Soteldo.
Argentina remains at the top of the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 19 points from nine matches, three points clear of second-placed Colombia. The team has shown strong performances throughout their campaign but will need to address inconsistencies to maintain their lead as they aim for qualification to the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, the top six finishers in South America’s ten-team round-robin qualifying competition will earn a spot in the finals.
Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged that while they are still on course for qualification, matches like these illustrate the competitive nature of CONMEBOL qualifiers. As Argentina prepares for their next fixtures, including a crucial match against Bolivia, fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how Messi and his teammates will respond to this setback and navigate the remaining challenges in their quest for World Cup glory.
