Lionel Messi will be absent from Argentina's upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia due to injury, prompting the recall of Paulo Dybala to coach Lionel Scaloni's squad. Messi, who has been sidelined since sustaining an ankle injury during Argentina's 1-0 win over Colombia in the Copa America final, has also missed recent matches for his club, Inter Miami.
In Messi's absence, Dybala, who last played internationally in March 2023, may have the chance to add to his 38 caps. The Roma forward's inclusion comes as Argentina continues their campaign at the top of South American qualifying for the 2026 tournament. Additionally, the team will be without Angel Di Maria, who recently retired from international duty.
Argentina is set to host Chile on 6 September, followed by a match against Colombia in Barranquilla four days later. The top six teams in the 10-nation qualifying table will secure automatic spots in the World Cup finals, to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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