Lionel Messi Ruled Out of Argentina's World Cup Qualifiers Due to Injury

The Argentine star's low-grade adductor injury leaves his national team without their top scorer as they aim to secure 2026 World Cup qualification.

Overview

Lionel Messi sustained a low-grade adductor injury during Inter Miami's match against Atlanta United on March 16, confirmed by an MRI scan on March 17.
Messi will miss Argentina's upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay on March 21 and Brazil on March 25.
Inter Miami stated that Messi's recovery timeline and availability for future matches, including their March 29 MLS game, will depend on his clinical progress.
Argentina leads the South American World Cup qualifying standings by five points and can secure their place in the 2026 tournament during this international window.
Brazil will also be without Neymar, sidelined by a thigh injury, as both teams face key matches in the qualification campaign.