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The Economic Times
The Economic Times

FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina backs 'competitive animal' Messi's presence ahead of opener

World Cup Lionel Messi Lionel Scaloni Nicolas Otamendi Argentina FIFA World Cup

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and defender Nicolas Otamendi highlighted the importance of World Cup-winning icon Lionel Messi in their side ahead of their FIFA World Cup campaign opener against Algeria scheduled for Tuesday.

Messi, who climbed the zenith of football by capturing the once-elusive FIFA World Cup title in the previous edition hosted by Qatar back in 2022, is once again the centre of attention and continues being a footballing heartthrob as the veteran aims to go back-to-back in what could be his last World Cup.

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