Will Lionel Messi Play the Friendly Match Against Mauritania?
Argentina is preparing to defend its World Cup title and will play a friendly against Mauritania at La Bombonera. On paper, the match looks like a warm-up test, even an easy one, but the big question everyone is asking is: will Lionel Messi play against the African team?
The Boca Juniors stadium is sold out, and millions will be watching the broadcast. Everyone wants to see Messi in what could be his last matches on Argentine soil. However, all signs indicate that he will start on the bench.
Scaloni’s Plan and Probable Lineup
Argentina’s probable lineup would include “Dibu” Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Marcos Senesi, and Nicolás Tagliafico; Nico Paz, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister; Nico González, Julián Álvarez, and Thiago Almada. The idea of Lionel Scaloni is to give him minutes in the second half, manage his workload, and avoid any setbacks.
The coach emphasized that he enjoys this type of match, as Mauritania is a team that plays with enthusiasm and motivation. Facing the world champion, at La Bombonera and with Messi in the squad, is a unique experience, so he expects a team that will compete at their best.
A Possible Farewell at Home
These friendlies, against Mauritania and Zambia, could represent the last time Lionel Messi wears the albiceleste jersey on Argentine soil. This makes these matches even more special.
Beyond World Cup preparation, these games carry an emotional tone: they could serve as a kind of farewell for Messi in front of his fans. That is why all signs point to him getting minutes at La Bombonera, where his entrance will surely trigger an unforgettable ovation.
