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Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pragjyoti Singh | Last updated Sep 30, 2026 3:59 PM ET

Argentina faces Bolivia in an international friendly at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Córdoba tonight, marking their first match since the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

After making an impressive run to the final, Lionel Scaloni’s side came close to becoming only the third nation to win consecutive World Cups. However, Argentina ultimately fell to a Spain side that proved too strong on the day.

Argentina now turns its attention to Bolivia as it looks to bounce back from the defeat and begin building for the future, particularly with Lionel Messi having played in his final World Cup.

Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight?

Scaloni named Messi in Argentina’s 35-man squad for the international friendlies, but the Inter Miami forward will not play tonight.

Despite his absence against Bolivia, the 39-year-old is expected to return when Argentina hosts Benin on October 6.

Lionel Messi after the 0-1 loss during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final match between Spain and Argentina on July 19, 2026.Photo by Michael Regan - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

The Argentine Football Association has planned the match as a farewell fixture for the country’s talisman and one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

Argentina vs. Bolivia Team News & Lineups

Atlético Madrid defender Cristian Romero has been named as Messi’s successor as Argentina’s captain and will wear the armband tonight.

Veterans Rodrigo De Paul and Giovani Lo Celso are also expected to sit out the match, with both players set to feature in Messi’s farewell fixture next week.

As for injuries, Nicolás Tagliafico is dealing with a muscle strain but remains with the squad.

Bolivia, meanwhile, is coming off four consecutive losses, and head coach Óscar Villegas is expected to field a defensive lineup as he looks to secure a positive result.

Captain Luis Haquín and midfielder Gabriel Villamil are available for selection, while Carmelo Algarañaz is expected to lead the line.

Argentina:

Rulli; Giay, Romero, Martínez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, Fernández; Simeone, Paz, González; Martínez.

Bolivia:

Viscarra; Morales, Haquín, Arroyo; Medina, Cuéllar, Melgar, Villamil, Fernández; Miguel, Nava.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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