March 26, New Delhi – Lionel Messi joined his Argentina teammates on the training pitch as the reigning world champions began preparations for the World Cup.
While there were concerns about Messi's fitness leading up to the 2026 World Cup, his recent full performance in MLS suggested he was fit to play in the friendlies. The squad, under the guidance of coach Lionel Scaloni, will face Mauritania on Friday.
This match will mark Argentina's first outing of the March FIFA international window. They will remain at La Bombonera for a second friendly against Zambia on March 31. Argentina will begin World Cup group play against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, followed by matches with Austria and Jordan.