For the first time since mid-July, Lionel Messi is back in the Argentinian team and only plays 1-1 in Venezuela. Despite the draw, the world champions remain top of the South American World Cup qualifying table.
Back on the ball for Argentina for the first time since the Copa America: Lionel Messi, here against Jose Martinez.
picture alliance / Anadolu
The Argentine national team had to be content with a draw against Venezuela in qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The game in the Venezuelan city of Maturin ended 1-1. After heavy rain, the game started late because the water had to be removed from the pitch.
Benfica Lisbon’s Otamendi scored for the reigning world champions in the 13th minute. Rondon equalized for the hosts in the 65th minute. When captain Lionel Messi returned to the Albiceleste after a two-month injury break, national coach Lionel Scaloni’s team retained its place at the top of the table in South America. Argentina will face Bolivia in Buenos Aires next week.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez suspended for obscene gestures
Messi appeared for the Argentine team for the first time since mid-July. He suffered an ankle injury in the Copa America final and was sidelined for around two months.
Following his recovery, the star striker has been back in action for his club Inter Miami since mid-September. In the game against Venezuela, the Albiceleste had to do without goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who was banned for two games for obscene gestures.
Argentina leads the South American table for qualifying for the World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico with 19 points after nine games. The first six of ten teams qualify directly for the finals, the seventh-placed team has to go into relegation.
