Messi says he feels fit as Argentina prepare to defend 2026 World Cup title

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Lionel Messi has said he is physically fit ahead of the 2026 World Cup, easing concerns among Argentine supporters after a minor disruption during the national team's training camp. The 38-year-old captain came on in the 69th minute of Argentina's friendly win over Iceland and converted a penalty three minutes later to score his side's second goal. With the strike, Messi became the oldest player to score for Argentina, surpassing Angel Labruna, who set the previous record in 1957 at 38 years and nine months. Messi is now 38 years and 11 months old. Speaking after the match, Messi said he was happy to return to the pitch following the camp setback and that he had felt able to play freely. He added that the team had a week to prepare for their opening match and that he had full confidence in the squad. The 2026 World Cup will be Messi's sixth appearance in the tournament. He won the title with Argentina in Qatar in 2022 and said the team would be on the field to defend that championship.