BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Argentina is proving it can win without Lionel Messi, just in case he opts not to play in the 2026 World Cup. After Argentina secured a spot in next year’s competition, the main question now is whether the 37-year-old star will play in his sixth tournament and try to win back-to-back championships.

Lionel Messi may have missed the game, but his reaction showed his passion. Argentina's dominant win over Brazil sent a strong message to their rivals.

Argentina may be close to punching their ticket to the 2026 World Cup, leading Conmebol World Cup qualifying but they'll have to pick up points without Lionel Messi and Lautro Martinez to do that. Messi is currently the leading scorer in World Cup qualifying with six goals so far this campaign,