Messi to lead Argentina in Guatemala friendly before 2026 FIFA World Cup | Football News

Lionel Messi was called up Wednesday for a March 31 friendly match against Guatemala as Argentina gears up to defend its title in the World Cup.

The game at La Bombonera in Buenos Aires was arranged after the Finalissima between Argentina and Spain on March 27 in Qatar was called off because of the conflict in the Middle East.

Coach Lionel Scaloni left out striker Lautaro Martinez, defender Lisandro Martinez, and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso because of physical problems.

Martinez (left calf strain) has been cleared to play but has yet to return for Inter Milan. Jose Manuel Lopez of Palmeiras in Brazil was called up in his place.

Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez is unavailable due to physical discomfort. Lo Celso of Real Betis is recovering from a muscle tear.

Estudiantes de La Plata defender Tomas Palacios and Racing Club full-back Gabriel Rojas received their first senior national team call-ups.

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni was called up despite being embroiled in controversy over alleged racist remarks to Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match.

Three-time champion Argentina is in a group with Algeria, Austria and Jordan.