Lionel Messi's fitness 'not worrying' Argentina as Lionel Scaloni admits Inter Miami superstar is 'managing his minutes' after superb two-goal showing in 2026 World Cup qualifier

Messi scored both goals as Argentina preserved their perfect record in World Cup qualifying. The reigning champions now sit five points clear of Brazil, Uruguay and Venezuela with 12 points from four matches.

Messi's match-winning performance comes following concerns about his fitness after he missed several MLS matches for Inter Miami because of muscle problems. However, Scaloni saw no reason to be concerned about the 36-year-old based on his display in Lima.

"I saw him as if he had not had an injury or a break. It is true that the team has understood him for a while now, he plays in a very marked way that benefits him," he said. "I hope he plays as long as he can, everyone is happy to see him on the pitch.

"We won’t be affected by his break because we won’t be competing again until March. I imagine he will do his preseason with his team, it is not something that really worries us. It was already seen today, without having a lot of minutes like it was said… The most important thing is that he is healthy and that’s the best thing, he is managing his minutes."

Messi is now set to return to MLS action with Inter Miami, who will conclude their MLS campaign with a double-header against Charlotte.