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Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to an adductor injury. The Inter Miami star expressed disappointment over his absence as Argentina aims to secure a 2026 World Cup spot. Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel are also out, while Brazil misses Neymar.

Lionel Messi will miss Argentina’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil due to injury, dealing a significant blow to the defending champions. The 37-year-old Inter Miami star, who recently returned to action in Major League Soccer, suffered an adductor strain in a match against Atlanta United.

Messi expressed disappointment over missing the crucial fixtures, calling it a "shame" in a social media post. Despite his absence, he assured fans he would be supporting the team from afar. Argentina, currently leading the South American qualifiers, hopes to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup with positive results in these matches.

His absence is compounded by injuries to key players Paulo Dybala and Gonzalo Montiel. Meanwhile, Brazil will also be without Neymar, who is sidelined with a thigh injury. With just six games remaining in the qualification campaign, Argentina will need to rely on their squad depth to maintain their lead at the top of the standings.