With the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America less than four months away, Lionel Messi and Argentina are preparing to defend the World Cup crown they captured in Qatar in 2022.
While excitement builds across the globe for soccer’s most prestigious tournament, Messi has openly discussed a potential matchup he would rather avoid: facing the Mexican national team.
Messi shared his thoughts during a candid conversation on the Miro de Atrás podcast with his former Argentina teammate, Tigres goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán.
Reflecting on Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Mexico in the 2022 World Cup group stage, the 38-year-old captain acknowledged the challenges and tension surrounding that encounter.
“We meet often in World Cups and major competitions, in do-or-die moments,” Messi said. That match, in particular, carried enormous weight, as a defeat would have meant Argentina’s early elimination from the tournament.
Argentina entered the 2022 game against Mexico with a palpable sense of fear, Messi admitted.
“We went into that game, sincerely, with fear,” he said, noting how the squad felt the pressure of the campaign and the possibility of an abrupt exit. Despite Argentina’s historical advantage in head-to-head encounters,
Messi explained that Mexico has always been a tricky opponent, capable of testing even the strongest teams. The psychological pressure of facing a team that can dominate possession and complicate the rhythm of the match added an extra layer of difficulty.
Potential North American challenge
Looking ahead to 2026, Messi highlighted that playing in North America introduces new variables. The tournament will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, giving the home teams a unique advantage in terms of crowd support and familiarity with the venues.
“Playing at home has an influence, for better or worse,” Messi said. This factor makes the prospect of an early clash with Mexico particularly daunting, even for the reigning world champions.
He expressed hope that the tournament plays out and keeps Argentina and Mexico from facing each other, allowing both teams to progress further before potentially meeting.
Beyond the competitive considerations, Messi conveyed respect for Mexican football and acknowledged the challenges the team consistently presents. Mexico’s ability to control games, their tactical discipline, and the enthusiasm of their supporters make them a formidable opponent in any stage of the tournament.
As Argentina prepares to defend its title, Messi‘s comments show the fine balance between respect for opponents and the desire to protect his team’s chances.
Fans around the world will be watching closely as the tournament draws near, eager to see whether Messi‘s wish-to avoid an early showdown with Mexico-comes true.
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