Lionel Messi Expresses Sadness over Missing Crucial World Cup Qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil

Lionel Messi has expressed his disappointment over missing Argentina's upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to a muscle strain.

The 37-year-old forward, who experienced discomfort after scoring in Inter Miami's 2-1 victory over Atlanta United in Major League Soccer, will remain in the United States to recover.

Argentina currently leads the CONMEBOL qualifying standings with 25 points from 12 games. They are scheduled to face second-placed Uruguay on Friday and Brazil on March 25. Brazil will also be without forward Neymar, who was set to return to the national team after more than a year but has been sidelined due to a muscle injury.

Despite his absence, Messi conveyed his support for the national team, stating, "I really wanted to play, but a small injury means I need to rest for a bit, so I can't be there. I'll be supporting and cheering from here like any other fan. Let's go, Argentina."