Is Lionel Messi playing tonight in Argentina's crucial match against Austria? | OneFootball

The World Cup is reaching its footballing peak, with some national teams already qualified and others already eliminated. The reality is that many are battling to stay in the competition, while others are still waiting to play their second match.

We are moments away from the encounter between Argentina and Austria, a decisive match that will determine first place in the group.

Looking at his debut performance, Lionel Messi is expected to be in the starting lineup against the European team, but will Lionel Scaloni fulfill every fan's wish?

Is Lionel Messi playing tonight for Argentina against Austria?

After his hat trick against Algeria, Lionel Messi tied Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. However, the Argentine superstar suffers from something every footballer faces at a certain age: the passage of time.

Although he has proven that age is just a number, as he moved and played like he was in his 20’s. With his recent performance, one would assume that the Argentine manager would keep Messi’s momentum and start him against Austria.

Well, that’s what will happen. Recent reports from Argentine television confirm that Lionel Scaloni will stick with the lineup that defeated Algeria, so Lionel Messi will once again lead Argentina's attack against Austria.

If Scaloni puts Messi today, Argentina has the offensive advantage. When they win today, assuming they will and with the team qualified for the next round, Messi could see the bench against Jordan to prevent him from getting injured.

Also, Scaloni’s project for the Argentinian national soccer team is for a post-Messi era. Yes, having the GOAT on the field is always better, as he is the most influential player on the pitch and always gives his team an extra edge.

However, during the World Cup qualifiers, Argentina proved it could play well without Messi, as evidenced by that 4-1 victory at River Plate's Estadio Monumental.

So, yes, Messi will start tonight against Austria to qualify for the Round of 16.