Argentina became the first team in South America to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, and Messi's participation has become the focus

On the 26th, Beijing time, the defending champion Argentina confirmed that it will win the ticket to the 2026 World Cup, becoming the first country in South America to win the ticket and the seventh country to confirm the competition.

Defending champions Argentina became the first team from South America to qualify for the 2026 World Cup

For the first time in history, 48 teams will be competing in the World Cup, with the top six teams from the South American region securing tickets. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, were ahead of today's World Cup qualifier against Brazil with 28 points, while Argentina were assured of qualifying for the finals following a 0-0 draw with Uruguay against Bolivia.

The 2026 World Cup will be Argentina's 19th appearance in the main tournament, with only Germany having 20 and Brazil having 22 more than Argentina.

The focus of Argentina this year will undoubtedly be whether Messi will wear the shirt again and write a record of six consecutive tournaments, although the 37-year-old has not ruled out the possibility, but he insists that whether he will participate in the World Cup is not the focus, and hints that his career is coming to an end.