International window in South America: The Messi era ends

International window in South America: The Messi era ends

According to Sports.

Context

The Argentina national team, led by Lionel Scaloni, is preparing for important matches within the international window, where they will test new players and strategies. While retired Lionel Messi will still be on the pitch, his departure opens up new opportunities for other players, which could have a significant impact on the squad ahead of the 2028 Copa America and 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

Why is this important

This international window is significant for Argentina as it will be Lionel Messi's last as a national team player. Given his departure, coach Lionel Scaloni will be looking for new tactical solutions and players who can replace the football legend, which will affect the team's overall season outlook and their chances of success in the upcoming tournaments.

Key takeaways

• International window in South America: The Messi era ends.
• After the completion of the 2026 World Cup, the first international window opens where all CONMEBOL teams will compete.
• South American International Preview: Messi Era Ends As New Eras Begin After 2026 World Cup.

The first international window after the 2026 World Cup opens up new horizons for all ten CONMEBOL teams. Many teams have chosen to play their matches away from home, while some will remain on home soil. This window promises to be interesting, although it will not be competitive. It gives coaches the opportunity to experiment with new players and ideas ahead of the 2028 Copa America and 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

Argentina

Lionel Scaloni and the Argentina national team approached the final of the tournament, hoping for a second consecutive victory at the World Cup, but in the final they were opposed by a strong team from Spain. Lionel Messi announced his retirement from his international career at the end of August, but he is included in the squad for this window and will play his last match for the Albiceleste against Benin in Buenos Aires. Argentina will also play against Bolivia and Burkina Faso, choosing to play all three matches at home.

The Argentina squad includes nine players who could make their international debuts, as well as six players who play for local clubs, including representatives of River Plate and Boca Juniors.

Argentina matches:

• Argentina - Bolivia - 09/30/2026 21:00
• Argentina - Burkina Faso - 03/10/2026 21:00
• Argentina - Benin - 06/10/2026 21:00

Bolivia

The Bolivian national team failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, losing to Iraq in the play-offs.In two test matches after that, the team suffered two defeats with the same score of 0:4 from Scotland and Algeria. Bolivia will play two matches in this window, facing Paraguay and Argentina.

Bolivia matches:

• Bolivia - Paraguay - 09/27/2026 21:30
• Argentina - Bolivia - 09/30/2026 21:00

Brazil

Brazil, after a disappointing performance at the World Cup where they were eliminated at the round of 16 stage, kick off the international window with three interesting matches. The team will play Australia and historical rivals India. Coach Carlo Ancelotti has included many young players in his squad who could make their debut for the national team.

Brazil matches:

• Australia - Brazil - 09/25/2026 11:00
• Australia - Brazil - 09/29/2026 11:00
• India - Brazil - 03/10/2026 15:00

Chile

Chile, which finished last in World Cup qualifying, begins the window against Canada before facing the United States and Mexico. The team has young players who can make an impression.


Chile matches:

• Canada - Chile - 09/27/2026 00:00
• USA - Chile - 09/30/2026 01:00
• Mexico - Chile - 07/10/2026 00:00

Colombia

The Colombian national team is starting a new era without its stars such as James Rodriguez. They will play matches against Mexico, Paraguay and Peru in the United States.

Colombia matches:

• Mexico - Colombia - 09/26/2026 21:00
• Colombia - Paraguay - 03/10/2026 01:00
• Colombia - Peru - 07/10/2026 00:45

Ecuador

The Ecuadorian national team will begin its performances in the Kiri Challenge Cup, holding meetings with South Korea and Japan. After a disappointing performance at the 2026 World Cup, the team is hoping for improvement under new coach Marcelo Gallardo.

Ecuador matches:

• South Korea - Ecuador - 09/24/2026 12:00
• Japan - Ecuador - 01/10/2026 11:10

Paraguay

Paraguay, who also failed to qualify for the World Cup, will play two matches this window, against Bolivia and Colombia.

Paraguay matches:

• Bolivia - Paraguay - 09/27/2026 21:30
• Colombia - Paraguay - 03/10/2026 01:00

Peru

The Peruvian national team, which missed the World Cup, will play matches with the USA, Mexico and Canada.

Uruguay

Uruguay, which has started a new phase under Diego Forlán, will also play in the Quiri Challenge Cup.

Venezuela

The Venezuelan national team will play its first matches after the earthquake tragedy, playing against Japan and South Korea.

What happens next

Argentina will look to perform well in matches against Bolivia and Burkina Faso, which will help build team spirit and prepare new players for future challenges. At the same time, Bolivia, who missed out on the 2026 World Cup, will be looking to improve their results, making their meeting with Argentina especially important in shaping the team for the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Argentina's current form?

Argentina entered the international window after the World Cup final, where they hoped for a second consecutive victory, but lost to Spain.

Will Lionel Messi play in the match against Bolivia?

Yes, Lionel Messi is included in the squad for this window and will play his last match for Argentina against Bolivia.

What are the odds for Argentina matches in this window?

Argentina's matches are non-competitive but provide an opportunity for coaches to experiment with new players ahead of the 2028 Copa America and 2030 World Cup qualifiers.

Which players can debut for Argentina?

The Argentina national team includes nine players who can make their international debut.

What are the results of the last matches of the Bolivian national team?

The Bolivian national team suffered two defeats with the same score of 0:4 from Scotland and Algeria after failure in the play-offs at the 2026 World Cup.

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