The 2026 Conmebol World Cup Qualifiers will conclude on Tuesday, with Argentina facing Ecuador in their final qualifying match. Fans are eager to see Lionel Messi play, as he is one of the sport’s greatest players.
This match holds special significance for Messi, as it could be his last qualifying game for the national team. He is expected to make his final official appearance in this competitive setting on Tuesday.
Both Argentine and Ecuadorian fans are excited, with many securing tickets for what could be Messi’s last Qualifier in the blue and white. Although Ecuador has home advantage, Argentina aims to finish with 41 points in the standings.
Despite strategies teams have used in earlier qualifiers, the excitement of watching top players compete still stands, highlighting the club vs national team dynamic.
Is Messi playing for Argentina vs. Ecuador today?
Lionel Messi will not play in today’s match against Ecuador. With both teams already qualified for the next stage of the 2026 World Cup, Messi didn’t travel with the Argentine squad as they look at other roster options for the main tournament.
Although Messi’s absence will be noticeable, this sets the stage for other players to step up and potentially make their debut as qualification is secured.
Predicted lineup for Argentina and Ecuador today
Expect significant changes in both lineups for today’s match. With Messi not traveling, here’s a look at the players anticipated to take the field against Ecuador.
- Argentina’s starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
- Defenders: Nicolas Tagliafico, Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Gonzalo Montiel
- Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Gonzalez, Thiago Almada
- Forwards: Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez
- Ecuador’s starting XI:
- Goalkeeper: Hernán Galindez.
- Defenders: Angelo Preciado, Joel Ordonez, Willian Pacho, Piero Hincapie, Pervis Estupinan or Nilson Angulo.
- Midfielders: Alan Franco, Moises Caicedo, Pedro Vite.
- Forwards: Gonzalo Plata and Enner Valencia