FAJAR.CO.ID, LA PAZ—Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates are preparing for a grueling battle in Bolivia and the Inter Miami superstar has to be given oxygen. He also has injury issues to worry about.
Messi scored a stunning winner against Ecuador, but there are concerns over his fitness for tomorrow’s 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates were reportedly given oxygen tanks as they prepare for a grueling World Cup qualifier in the Bolivian highlands.
The 36-year-old scored his trademark free-kick to beat Ecuador in the final minutes on Thursday, but he was immediately substituted and head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed his main man was injured.
Messi, who has played a key role in Inter Miami’s slim hopes of reaching the MLS playoffs, is doubtful for La Paz on Tuesday due to an undisclosed problem.
He was seen leaving the IMAXE medical center on Saturday after being examined by specialists, although Scaloni still hopes Messi can take part in Argentina’s second World Cup qualifier.
To prepare for the match at the Estadio Hernando Siles, Argentina’s players have been given oxygen cylinders to help deal with the impact of the altitude.
The stadium is 3,637 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest stadiums on the planet and the Argentine players will definitely be breathless during the game.