Lionel Messi’s long-awaited return to the Argentina national football team ended in a dramatic 1-1 draw against the Colombia national football team in a high-stakes CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers clash.
The match, held at the iconic Mâs Monumental, saw former MLS star Thiago Almada rescue a point for the World Cup champions with a late equalizer, keeping Argentina unbeaten in recent World Cup qualifiers.
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Messi’s Return Ends in Dramatic Draw
Lionel Messi started for Argentina in his first match on home soil this year. Despite Colombia’s aggressive defense, Messi battled through multiple tough challenges before being subbed off in the 78th minute. Just three minutes later, Atlanta United alum Thiago Almada delivered a stunning solo effort, dribbling past two defenders and firing home the equalizer.
Colombia had taken the lead earlier when Liverpool’s Luis DÃaz sliced through Argentina’s defense, scoring in the 24th minute. The Colombia national football team nearly held on for a famous win, but Almada’s heroics denied them.
Red Card Drama and Argentina’s Resilience
The match took a tense turn when Enzo Fernández was shown a straight red card in the 70th minute for a high boot on Colombia’s Kevin Castaño. Despite being down to 10 men, Argentina fought back, proving why they remain a dominant force in CONMEBOL qualifiers.
This result follows Argentina’s recent 1-0 win over Chile, maintaining their unbeaten streak in World Cup 2026 qualifying. With 34 points, the Argentina national football team has already secured their spot in the next FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Messi’s Focus Shifts to Club World Cup with Inter Miami
With his Argentina duties complete, Messi now turns his attention to leading Inter Miami in the FIFA Club World Cup. Their opening match is against Egypt’s Al Ahly on Saturday at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium.
Messi’s fitness will be crucial as Inter Miami aims for glory. After a brief rest, he’ll rejoin training ahead of the tournament, which also features matches against FC Porto (Portugal) and SE Palmeiras (Brazil).
Argentina’s Dominance in Recent Years
Despite the draw, Argentina’s football pedigree remains unmatched. Since their shocking 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia in the 2022 World Cup, they’ve lost only five times in 74 matches. Key defeats include:
- 2-0 vs Brazil (2019 Copa America semifinals)
- 2-1 vs Colombia (2024, Messi injured)
- 2-0 vs Uruguay (2023 World Cup qualifiers)
- 2-1 vs Paraguay (2023 World Cup qualifiers)
Yet, Argentina continues to dominate the CONMEBOL standings, proving why they are the reigning World Cup and Copa America champions.
Will Messi Play in the World Cup 2026?
The big question remains: Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup? The Inter Miami superstar has not confirmed his participation, keeping fans in suspense. If this was his last Argentina vs Colombia qualifier, it was a fittingly intense farewell.
Final Thoughts: Argentina vs Colombia – A Classic Rivalry
The ARG vs Colombia clash lived up to its hype, showcasing why South American football is among the world’s best. With Brazil’s national football team beat Paraguay national football team in 1-0, the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers continue to deliver thrilling football.
As Messi prepares for the Club World Cup, Argentina remains on track for another historic run. Whether he returns for World Cup 2026 or not, his legacy with the Argentina national football team is forever cemented.
Next Up:
- Inter Miami vs Al Ahly – June 15, Hard Rock Stadium
- Argentina’s next World Cup qualifiers are coming soon
Stay tuned for more updates on  Sports Dribble and its Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter accounts.
My name is Krishanu Das the founder of the Sports Dribble.
I am Accountant by profession but a Sports Blogger by passion.
I am passionate about sharing my all knowledge and experiences of sports, with my readers and every sports enthusiast.
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