/sportsinfo/media/member_avatars/image 59.png)
/sportsinfo/media/member_avatars/2025/06/28/2025-06-28t084421293z-untitled-design_20250628_141411_0000-2025-06-28-14-14-21.png )
Follow Us/sportsinfo/media/media_files/BLKW8TuzW6jLyKaQqAsZ.png)
Lionel Messi (Source: X)
Lionel Messi cited the poor pitch conditions as a contributing factor to Argentina's recent performance in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The team, reigning World Cup champions, faced a challenging 1-1 draw against Venezuela on Thursday, October 10, with the match being significantly affected by a water-logged pitch following heavy rainfall in Maturin.
Messi's much-anticipated return
Messi made his comeback for Argentina after his absence since the 2024 Copa America final. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner sustained a severe ankle injury during the final against Colombia, leading to over two months of recovery. La Albiceleste aimed to solidify their position at the top of the South American World Cup qualifying table but had to accept a frustrating draw against Venezuela.
The match faced an initial delay due to heavy rain, and despite efforts to proceed, the Estadio Monumental de Maturin remained waterlogged. Lionel Messi made a triumphant return, providing an assist for Nicolas Otamendi in the 13th minute, giving Argentina the lead. Despite this, the hosts levelled the score in the second half with a powerful header from Salomon Rondon in the 65th minute.
After the match, Messi expressed his happiness at rejoining the national team, but he criticized the condition of the pitch, stating that it posed challenges for his team's game plan. "The field didn’t help us execute what we wanted to do. We hadn’t prepared for the match in this way, but we were ready to compete for the second ball and look for a mistake from the opponent."- Lionel Messi said.
"I’m happy that I can continue playing and be here again. Honestly, it was very difficult to play this way; the match was very ugly and full of complications," he added. Despite the 1-1 draw with Venezuela, Argentina continues to lead the 2026 CONMEBOL standings with 19 points from nine matches. The team has won six matches, lost twice, and recently secured a draw.