When Will Neymar vs. Messi Take Place in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers?

The CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will deliver a special chapter this March, featuring the highly anticipated Argentina vs. Brazil clash. Beyond its historical rivalry, this match marks the long-awaited on-field reunion of Lionel Messi and Neymar in international competition.

Soccer

Neymar’s First Words After Returning to Brazil

Neymar’s Return to the Brazilian National Team

Brazil’s head coach, Dorival Júnior, surprised many by including Neymar in his 23-man squad for the upcoming qualifiers against Colombia (March 20) and Argentina (March 25).

The Santos forward has been out of the Seleção since October 2023 due to a serious knee injury but has shown promising form since his return to Brazilian football. Neymar has recorded three goals and three assists in seven matches, proving he still has the ability to make a difference for his country.

Currently sitting in fifth place in the CONMEBOL standings, Brazil hopes Neymar’s presence will provide a much-needed boost as they aim to climb higher in the table.

Messi Leads Argentina at Home

On the other side, Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, remains at the top of the CONMEBOL standings and is determined to solidify its lead with a victory over its fiercest rival.

Scaloni has largely stuck with the squad that won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with Messi as the undisputed leader. However, he has also introduced new faces, such as Claudio Echeverri and Máximo Perrone, reflecting a gradual generational shift within the team.