Lionel Messi during practice for the FIFA World Cup in Kansas City. (AP Photo)

Lionel Messi to play final warm-up game before 2026 FIFA World Cup

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni indicated that Lionel Messi would play when the reigning world champions face Iceland in their final warm-up match ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday in Auburn, Alabama.

Addressing reporters on Monday, Scaloni said, “Leo is going to play. The only thing we haven’t finalised yet is exactly how long he’ll be on the field. I want to speak with him again during today’s session before making that decision. Our priority is making sure we don’t take unnecessary risks. Once we evaluate everything, we’ll determine the number of minutes, but the plan is for him to participate.”