Waiting for Messi to score again

The last time Lionel Messi played a full half was in a 2026 World Cup qualifier in September. Between the two national team training sessions, the Argentine superstar only played in two matches for Inter Miami, with a total of about 60 minutes on the field.

Messi has recovered from his injury in time to return to the Argentina team. However, the superstar's physical condition is still a big question mark. Messi only played about 30 minutes in Inter Miami's most recent match, so he may not be at his best for the match.

Messi has just recovered after playing only two matches for Inter Miami between two international breaks.

Argentina have played without Messi before, beating Bolivia 3-0 away with goals from Enzo Fernandez, Nocolas Tagliafico and Nicolas Gonzalez, but that was in a game where the reigning world champions were given a half-game advantage.

Argentina is currently ranked second in the South American qualifying round for the 2026 World Cup after two matches. Only coach Lionel Scaloni and his rival Brazil have earned 6 points with 2 wins. Qualifying may not be a difficult challenge for Messi and his teammates when South America has 6 places (out of 10 qualifying teams) to go straight to the World Cup finals.

Argentina are playing at home and Paraguay are not a strong opponent. The team has only won 2 matches (both friendly) in the past year against UAE and Nicaragua, the rest are 1 draw and 4 defeats. Coach Guillermo Schelotto was fired in September.

Schelotto was replaced by Argentine coach Daniel Garnero. The 54-year-old wants Paraguay to play attacking football, but his changes have not helped his team improve their performance. Paraguay's scoring efficiency is still very low - just one goal in the last 11 matches.

The only thing that Paraguay has that makes Argentina fans worried is the past head-to-head record between the two teams. Argentina has only won against Paraguay once, scoring 3 goals in the last 6 meetings. Messi and his teammates have drawn 4 matches with Paraguay (the other is a loss) since 2015 until now.