Argentina forward Lionel Messi will miss the final match of the World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign against Ecuador.
In the previous game against Venezuela (3–0) the 38‑year‑old forward scored a brace, and another of his goals was ruled out for offside. Messi played the full 90 minutes, although coach Lionel Scaloni said he had initially planned to substitute him.
He was supposed to be taken off, but I didn’t because of the emotion of the match. We had agreed beforehand that he would play the whole game. He won’t travel to Ecuador. He’ll rightfully spend time with his family.
Argentina have already secured their place at the World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico in 2026. The final qualifying match will be played on September 9 in Guayaquil.
Earlier Messi suggested the game against Venezuela might be his last appearance for the national team on home soil. Before kickoff fans unfurled a banner reading “Thanks for everything, captain,” and he entered the field with his sons Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.
Over his international career Messi has won the World Cup, two Copa América titles, the Finalissima and an Olympic gold medal.
