Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Lionel Messi will play Tuesday’s final friendly before the 2026 World Cup, a match against Iceland in Auburn, Alabama. Minutes remain undecided pending today’s training to avoid aggravating his left‑hamstring fatigue. Messi warmed up in Texas two days earlier, sat out the Honduras win, and left Inter Miami’s game versus Philadelphia Union in the 73rd minute with the same strain.

Scaloni also listed three other returnees—Nico Paz, Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel—who have completed rehab and are expected to feature and are match‑fit. Midfielder Julián Álvarez reports diminishing ankle discomfort, while defender Leandro Paredes is close to rejoining the squad. Marseille’s Leonardo Balerdi remains out with a calf injury, and the coach will name his replacement after tomorrow’s game.

Argentina opens the World Cup on June 16 against Algeria, then faces Austria and Jordan in Group J. Ensuring Messi stays healthy could shape the team’s attacking options, while the availability of Paz, Molina and Montiel gives Scaloni tactical flexibility. The Iceland friendly serves as the last rehearsal before the tournament’s kickoff. A strong showing could cement Messi’s leadership role heading into the group stage.