Lost 3-1, 7-0 and 4-1 to Italy, Poland and Argentina in their only previous World Cup back in 1974 but a flawless start to qualifying and the new format offers real hope of a play-off spot at least.

Argentina soccer fans converge on the highways during a homecoming parade for the players who won the World Cup title, in downtown Buenos Aires, Argentina, Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022.

Argentina's Leandro Paredes celebrates after defeating Brazil in a World Cup 2026 qualifying soccer match at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

Playing with Argentina before the MLS Cup playoffs last year, Messi was scoreless in a 1-1 draw against Venezuela on Oct. 11, 2024, then exploded with a hat trick and two assists in a 6-0 victory ...

World Cup expansion has taken the edge off many South American qualifiers. With 14 of 18 rounds played, all the big boys seem to be safe. Argentina clinched qualification Tuesday.

Argentina is proving it can win without Lionel Messi, just in case he opts not to play in the 2026 World Cup. After Argentina secured a spot in next year's competition, the main question now is ...

Next summer’s World Cup is on Lionel Messi’s mind but he is yet to make a final decision over whether he will play in it or not. Messi will turn 38 during the tournament in the United States ...

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was asked whether Messi would be a part of the team and said his No. 10 needed to be left alone. “We will see what happens, there’s plenty of time,” Scaloni ...