“Lionel Messi’s Mysterious Absence: How Argentina Crushed Bolivia 3-0
Lionel Messi is presently enjoying a well-earned respite. Messi, the triumphant hero of the 2022 World Cup and seven-time recipient of the prestigious Ballon d’Or, shall not grace the field in Argentina’s confrontation with Bolivia this Tuesday afternoon. Remarkably, Messi’s name was glaringly absent from both the starting lineup and the active roster fielded by the Argentinean squad.
Nevertheless, Messi has accompanied the team to the Estadio Hernando Siles in La Paz, Bolivia, where the 2026 World Cup qualifying clash unfolds. This demanding schedule for Messi has transpired since his arrival at Inter Miami, the MLS outfit owned by David Beckham, back in late July.
To elucidate, Messi has participated in a dozen matches over a taxing 48-day period. Notably, he netted a sublime free-kick goal during Argentina’s 1-0 triumph over Ecuador in a recent World Cup qualifying match. It is conceivable that Messi’s forthcoming appearances for Inter Miami later this month may also be impacted by this relentless workload.
Now, let us delve into how Argentina fared against Bolivia in the absence of Messi. Astonishingly, the Argentine side displayed unwavering brilliance even in Messi’s absence. Enzo Fernández found the net in the 31st minute, and the squad notched two additional goals following Bolivia’s Roberto Fernández being shown the red card in the 39th minute, culminating in a resounding 3-0 victory. To embellish further, Nicolás Tagliafico scored in the 42nd minute, while Nicolás González secured the third goal in the 83rd minute, as Bolivia navigated the second half with just ten players.
For those eager to witness the Argentina vs. Bolivia matchup, the game is scheduled for 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on Tuesday, with broadcasts available on Telemundo, UNIVERSO, and TUDN USA.
Turning our attention to Messi’s impending schedule with Inter Miami, it is anticipated that Messi will rejoin the squad ahead of their next contest against Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on September 16th. However, it is worth noting that his participation may be curtailed in this fixture. Subsequently, Inter Miami faces a rigorous schedule with four additional matches in a ten-day span to round out the month of September.
These matches include three home fixtures at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where Messi might either serve as a substitute or be substituted early, contingent on his physical condition. The upcoming matches for Inter Miami encompass hosting Toronto on September 20th, a visit to Orlando City on September 24th, a home game against the New York City FC on September 30th, and the U.S. Open Cup final against Houston on September 27th.
Shifting gears, let’s explore how Lionel Messi was trending towards securing some well-deserved rest. The 36-year-old football maestro opted not to partake in training with his Argentina comrades on Monday, as reported by the Associated Press. Given Messi’s taxing series of matches, which included 12 consecutive appearances for Inter Miami prior to his international duties, it is unsurprising that fatigue compelled him to request a substitution shortly before the 89th minute in the recent Argentina qualifying match.
In the words of Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, “Leo was tired the other day and asked to be substituted, but it’s not needed that we speak to him before matches. We see as it goes.” Indeed, the decision regarding his participation was made hours before Tuesday’s match in Bolivia, as alluded to by Scaloni during a press conference held the preceding Sunday.
Reflecting on Messi’s performance in Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Ecuador, it’s apparent that Messi made an indelible impact. In his first outing with the national team since the 2022 World Cup final, Messi dazzled by slotting a sublime free-kick into the net in the 78th minute, ultimately securing Argentina’s win at Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires. His precision was breathtaking, with his left-footed strike gracefully finding the left side of the net, leaving Ecuadorian goalkeeper Hernán Galíndez powerless, kneeling in awe after the remarkable display.
Anticipating Argentina’s prospects in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, it is highly likely that the nation will secure a berth. Following their victory over Ecuador, Argentina currently boasts three points in Conmebol qualifying, while Ecuador languishes with a deficit of minus-three points.
In light of the expanded format for the 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams and be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, six South American teams will gain direct entry to the tournament, with a seventh team vying for a slot via the FIFA playoff tournament.
Lastly, we revisit the question of whether Messi, at the age of 36, will don the Argentine jersey in the 2024 Copa America and the 2026 World Cup, or if he will opt to retire from international competition before then. Messi, in his own words, expressed uncertainty during an interview broadcast on Argentine television in July, stating, “Even I don’t know when. It’ll happen when it happens.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s absence from Argentina’s recent clash with Bolivia underscored the remarkable depth and resilience of the Argentine squad. While Messi’s star power is undeniable, the team demonstrated its ability to shine even in his absence, securing a convincing 3-0 victory.
Messi’s taxing schedule, juggling international duties with his commitments to Inter Miami, highlights the physical demands placed on modern footballers. His decision to request a substitution in a recent match due to fatigue serves as a reminder of the toll such a rigorous regimen can take on even the most exceptional athletes.
Looking ahead, Argentina’s prospects in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign appear promising, with the team well-positioned to secure a coveted spot in the tournament. The expanded format and joint hosting by the United States, Mexico, and Canada add an extra layer of excitement to the event.
As for Messi’s future with the national team, the question remains open-ended. His love for the game and dedication to representing Argentina are undeniable, yet the passage of time may influence his decision. Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Lionel Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is secure, and fans around the world eagerly await his next chapter, whether it’s on the field or as a spectator.
When I am successful in everything, I want to relax and wait for the right moment to take action. Logically, given my age, one would expect it to be soon, but I don’t know for sure.” Notably, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni emphasized in January that “the door will always be open” for the country’s most illustrious star.
In conclusion, Lionel Messi’s absence from Argentina’s recent clash with Bolivia underscored the remarkable depth and resilience of the Argentine squad. While Messi’s star power is undeniable, the team demonstrated its ability to shine even in his absence, securing a convincing 3-0 victory.
Messi’s taxing schedule, juggling international duties with his commitments to Inter Miami, highlights the physical demands placed on modern footballers. His decision to request a substitution in a recent match due to fatigue serves as a reminder of the toll such a rigorous regimen can take on even the most exceptional athletes.
Looking ahead, Argentina’s prospects in the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign appear promising, with the team well-positioned to secure a coveted spot in the tournament. The expanded format and joint hosting by the United States, Mexico, and Canada add an extra layer of excitement to the event.
As for Messi’s future with the national team, the question remains open-ended. His love for the game and dedication to representing Argentina are undeniable, yet the passage of time may influence his decision. Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Lionel Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time is secure, and fans around the world eagerly await his next chapter, whether it’s on the field or as a spectator.