LIONEL MESSI

Lionel Messi set to start as Argentina launch FIFA World Cup defence

Lionel Messi is expected to start as Argentina begin their defence of the FIFA World Cup, with head coach Lionel Scaloni confident the captain is fully fit and ready to lead.

16 Jun 2026

Holders Argentina cruise past Honduras in comfortable World Cup warm-up victory

Argentina continued their preparations for the FIFA World Cup with a controlled 2-0 win over Honduras in Texas on Saturday, underlining their depth even without captain Lionel Messi on the pitch.

07 Jun 2026

Lionel Scaloni includes 'fit' Lionel Messi in Argentina's 2026 World Cup squad

Lionel Messi is set to make history after being named in Argentina's 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup, giving the legendary forward the chance to appear at a sixth finals tournament.

29 May 2026

Lionel Messi backs Neymar for World Cup selection with Brazil

Lionel Messi believes Brazil should select Neymar in their the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, insisting his former Barcelona teammate remains one of football's best players despite concerns over his fitness and form.

09 May 2026

Inside Chipolopolo’s blockbuster friendly against Argentina

Zambia’s national team technical committee vice president Kalusha Bwalya has explained to SABC Sport how Chipolopolo secured a high-profile friendly against world champions Argentina next week.

26 Mar 2026

Barcelona president: Lionel Messi return to Barcelona unrealistic

Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ruled out the possibility of Lionel Messi returning to the club as a player, describing such speculation as "unrealistic."

12 Nov 2025