Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Lionel Messi will start in their international friendly against Zambia on Tuesday.

Messi came off the bench during Argentina’s 2-1 win over Mauritania, though the world champions struggled to find their rhythm last time out at La Bombonera.

Mauritania won the expected goals (xG) battle 1.04 to 0.67, restricting Argentina to just one shot in the second half.

The Argentina fans will be hoping Messi’s impact from the start will lead to a stronger performance in their final home game before their World Cup title defence.

Messi scored the most goals in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying (eight) and also directly contributed to the most goals (11).

The 38-year-old is yet to confirm whether he will be playing at the World Cup this summer, though Scaloni is ready to include the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner in the squad.

“Messi will start. I wanted to give Julian [Alvarez] a bit of rest and Nico Gonzalez too, to give a chance to other boys,” said Scaloni.

“Let’s hope the team really shows the face we all want again.

“If Messi decides to come to the World Cup, let him enjoy it, I won’t get tired of saying it, they are unforgettable moments.

“Obviously, we know he competes. Everyone wants to see him train and play.

“Let’s hope that people show up, it’s the last home game, to watch Leo play. A lot of kids are coming; we want people to go home happy.”

#SelecciónMayor Inicia la conferencia de prensa del entrenador Lionel Scaloni en la previa del último amistoso de la fecha FIFA ante Zambia. pic.twitter.com/6a5mOlVTn6

— Selección Argentina (@Argentina) March 30, 2026

Scaloni also spoke on Joaquin Panichelli, who is ruled out of the World Cup with a knee injury.

The Strasbourg striker, who made his Argentina debut in November, has scored the most goals in Ligue 1 this season (16).

“We will provide support to the young man who was left out of the World Cup due to injury,” added Scaloni.

“We know what it means to be sidelined from the World Cup.”