Overview
- Lionel Scaloni told reporters the decision on Lionel Messi’s World Cup participation rests with the captain and said he will do everything possible to have him there.
- Messi has joined the national team in Buenos Aires, posted that “the dream remains intact,” and is set to play in at least one of the home friendlies against Mauritania and Zambia, according to the coach.
- Argentina scheduled those March games after the Finalissima versus Spain fell through, turning the window into a key chance to test options and build match fitness before the tournament.
- Local outlets say plans are taking shape beyond March, with ESPN Argentina reporting about 21 roster spots are effectively set and TNT Sports reporting talks for June friendlies against Honduras in Texas and Serbia in Alabama.
- The title defense begins in Group J against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City, with games to follow against Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27.