Lionel Messi returns to action with the Argentine national team Thursday night for a 2026 World Cup qualifying match on the road against Paraguay.

Argentina are back in action on Thursday with a trip to Asuncion to face a tough Paraguay test with a chance to inch closer to a FIFA 2026 World Cup berth. Lionel Messi and company saw off Bolivia last time out with a hat trick plus two assists in a thumping.

Lionel Messi, Julián Alvarez and Lautaro Martínez all started for the World Cup holders as they were stunned at Estadio Defensores del Chaco.

Lionel Messi failed to score as Argentina were beaten 2-1 by Paraguay in CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers. The two goals of Paraguay also included an incredible bicycle kick from Antonio Sanabria.

Paraguay defeated Argentina 2-1 in a South American World Cup qualifier with stunning goals from Antonio Sanabria and Omar Alderete. Argentina's initial goal was awarded after a VAR review. Paraguay's victory held despite several Argentine attempts,

Argentina are back in action on Thursday with a trip to Asuncion to face a tough Paraguay test with a FIFA 2026 World Cup berth on the line. Lionel Scaloni's men can book their return as defending champions with a win barely two years on from their success ...

Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Paraguay face each other for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium. Check out our live blog and don’t miss the action. Paraguay host Argentina for Matchday 11 of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at Defensores del Chaco stadium.

Lionel Scaloni’s side face a huge challenge against Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay - will Messi play at La Bombonera?