"Had an uncomfortable night that showed him more annoyed" - Argentina media on Lionel Messi's showing in Paraguay loss

Argentina's media have given their verdict on Lionel Messi's performance in the 2-1 defeat to Paraguay in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier earlier this week. La Albiceleste went ahead in the game through Lautaro Martinez in the 11th minute.

Paraguay equalized in the 19th minute and then went ahead in the second minute of the second half. Despite Argentina's best efforts, they couldn't get back into the game.

TyC Sport gave Lionel Messi a 6/10 score after the game. They praised his efforts, stating:

“He never stood still waiting for the ball. Several times he dropped to the position of central midfielder to organize from there. He tried from medium distance, appearing by surprise in space, he looked for it until the end.”

However, another Argentinean media outlet Clarin were not so complimentary of La Pulga, stating:

“Messi, always surrounded and stifled by rivals, had an uncomfortable night that showed him more annoyed than satisfied with his performance and that of the rest of the team.”

They added:

“This time the ’10’ could not make the difference. To be fair, it was more to Paraguay’s credit that they did not leave him alone throughout the match on a controversial night.”

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner arrived at the international break on the back of Inter Miami's exit from the MLS Playoffs in Round One. The Herons were knocked out of the tournament by Atlanta United in the best-of-three series.

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When will Lionel Messi feature again for Argentina?

Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi will feature again for Argentina on Tuesday (November 19) when they take on Peru at La Bombonera in their next 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. La Albiceleste are leading the South American table after 11 games, with seven wins, one draw and three defeats to their name.

Argentina will be desperate to get back to winning ways after the defeat against Paraguay. Lionel Scaloni is likely to turn to Messi for inspiration once again.

The 37-year-old is coming off a stellar campaign with Inter Miami, where he registered 23 goals and 13 assists from 25 games. La Pulga has scored 34 goals in 68 World Cup qualifiers for La Albiceleste to date.

As such, Lionel Messi will also be determined to get his team back on winning ways. The six-time European Golden Shoe winner lifted the Copa America this year. He also guided Argentina to a historic World Cup triumph in 2022.