Overview
- After a 2–1 preseason victory over Atlético Nacional in Medellín, Javier Mascherano answered "Sí, ¿por qué no?" when asked if Lionel Messi could feature at the 2026 World Cup.
- Mascherano expressed confidence in Argentina’s title defense, saying the team has competed at a high level with extraordinary players.
- Messi started the friendly at Estadio Atanasio Girardot and played roughly 75 minutes.
- Acknowledging Messi would be 39 at the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, Mascherano said playing time will be managed based on how the player feels.
- He credited Messi with enabling Inter Miami’s international tour, which moves to Ecuador before the MLS opener on February 21 against Los Angeles FC.