Argentina demonstrates its ability to triumph without Lionel Messi, particularly if he chooses not to participate in the 2026 World Cup.

With Argentina securing a position in the upcoming tournament, the focal point shifts to whether the 37-year-old player will join his sixth World Cup in pursuit of consecutive titles.

“We will see what happens, there’s plenty of time,” commented Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni. “We must take it one game at a time; otherwise, we will be discussing this throughout the year. It’s best to give him space and allow him to make the decision on his own terms.”

After qualifying for the World Cup, Argentina achieved an impressive 4-1 victory against Brazil, marking Brazil’s worst-ever defeat in World Cup qualifiers, only days following a 1-0 win against Uruguay.

Both wins occurred without Messi, who is currently recovering from a minor injury. The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient has already faced numerous injury challenges this season while playing for Inter Miami.

Messi’s teammates expressed their eagerness for his return, with striker Julián Álvarez remarking, “With Messi, we might have scored two or three more goals.”

With Bolivia’s failure to secure a win against Uruguay earlier, Argentina, leading the South American qualifiers with 31 points, has guaranteed one of the six spots for the 48-team World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

Post the monumental victory at Monumental de Nunez Stadium, midfielder Rodrigo de Paul articulated the sentiments shared by many in the country:

“We’re always at our best when our No. 10 is on the field, as he is undoubtedly the greatest of all time.”