The Stage is Set: Chile vs Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers

The excitement is palpable as Argentina, the reigning FIFA World Cup champions, prepare to face off against bottom-placed Chile in their qualifier match in Santiago on Thursday. The stakes are high, but the Albiceleste are expected to dominate the match, given their impressive track record in the tournament. However, there’s a twist – the team’s captain and star player, Lionel Messi, will not be starting in the match.

A Blow to Argentine Fans: Messi’s Absence

The news of Messi’s absence from the starting lineup has sent shockwaves among Argentine fans, who were eagerly anticipating his return to the field. With 112 goals for Argentina, Messi is the country’s highest goalscorer and led his team to victory in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. His absence is a significant blow to the team’s morale, but coach Lionel Scaloni has reassured fans that it’s a precautionary measure.

Why is Messi Not Starting?

So, what’s behind Messi’s absence from the starting lineup? The 37-year-old forward has been recovering from an injury and was expected to make a comeback in the match against Chile. However, Scaloni has decided to take a cautious approach, given that the match is a low-stakes one. Argentina has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, and Scaloni wants to ensure that Messi is fully fit before throwing him into the fray.

"We’ve been in contact with Messi recently. We haven’t decided yet whether he’ll play from the start or not. It would be good to know how he’s feeling physically," Scaloni told reporters. "It’s clear that today we’re in a position to try other things. In principle, he’s available to play, and we’ll decide later."

A Strategic Move?

Scaloni’s decision to bench Messi may seem surprising, but it’s a strategic move that could pay off in the long run. By giving Messi a breather, Scaloni is ensuring that his star player is fully recovered and ready to take on more challenging opponents in the future. It’s a gamble that could backfire, but Scaloni is confident that his team can handle the pressure without Messi in the starting lineup.

The Match: Chile vs Argentina

The match between Chile and Argentina promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams looking to make a statement. Chile, currently at the bottom of the table, will be looking to pull off an upset against the reigning champions. Argentina, on the other hand, will be looking to cement its dominance in the tournament and maintain its unbeaten streak.

Follow the Match Live

Don’t miss out on the action! Follow the match live here: Chile vs Argentina LIVE SCORE — FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Get real-time updates, scores, and analysis as the match unfolds.

A Challenging Road Ahead

The FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers have been a rollercoaster ride for Argentina, with the team facing numerous challenges along the way. Despite these challenges, the team has shown remarkable resilience and determination, and fans are confident that they will emerge victorious in the end.

As the match against Chile approaches, Argentine fans are on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the outcome. Will Messi make a comeback in the second half? Will Argentina maintain its unbeaten streak? The answers to these questions will be revealed on Thursday, and fans can’t wait to find out.

The Legacy of Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi is more than just a player – he’s a legend, a hero, and a role model for millions of fans around the world. His achievements on the field are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. As he nears the end of his career, fans are cherishing every moment they get to see him play.

The match against Chile may be a low-stakes one, but it’s an opportunity for Messi to make a statement and show the world what he’s still capable of. Even if he doesn’t start, fans know that he’ll give it his all when he comes on the field, and that’s what makes him a true champion.

Conclusion

The stage is set for an exciting encounter between Chile and Argentina, and fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome. With or without Messi in the starting lineup, Argentina is expected to dominate the match, but Scaloni’s cautious approach may just pay off in the long run. One thing is for sure – the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers have been an unforgettable ride, and fans can’t wait to see what the future holds for their favorite teams and players.

Content originally published by sportstar.thehindu.com