Argentina vs Colombia Messis Return & World Cup Qualifier Highlights June 2025
Get full updates on Argentina vs Colombia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers See how Lionel Messi returned to lead Argentina ahead of the Club World Cup clash vs Al Ahly .
Match Overview
On June 10 2025 Argentina hosted Colombia at Estadio Más Monumental in Buenos Aires in a high stakes match for CONMEBOL World Cup qualification This encounter was part of Matchday 16 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers With Argentina already qualified the match served as an ideal warm up as they prepared to defend their title at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup For Colombia the stakes were far higher—they entered the match in sixth place with 21 points battling to stay in contention for direct qualification .
Kick Off & Broadcast Information
The match kicked off at 800 p m Eastern Time 700 p m CT 600 p m PT in the US and at 700 p m local time in Colombia It was broadcast in the US on TyC Sports Internacional and Telemundo Deportes while Colombian fans tuned in via Gol Caracol and Canal RCN Online coverage and live updates were available through Diario AS USA Latino and other streaming platforms .
Also Read : Who Was Mélanie? France Mourns Joyful School Assistant Fatally Stabbed by Teen in Haute‑Marne
Messi Returns – Full Focus
All eyes were on Lionel Messi who returned to the national squad in top form The Inter Miami star had just scored five goals and contributed three assists in his last three MLS games Although he sat out Argentinas prior match against Chile Messi was reinserted into the starting XI for this key fixture More than just a qualifier this was a pivotal moment for Messi to regain scoring form for Argentina—he had not scored for the national team since October 2024 With the Club World Cup fast approaching Messi aimed to find his rhythm ahead of Inter Miamis opening match against Al Ahly on June 14 .
Colombias High Stakes
Colombias campaign was on the line With only three matches left in the qualifiers they needed a victory to move closer to a top four finish and automatic World Cup qualification Their recent form had been disappointing—just one win in their last five games However they welcomed back Luis Díaz who was tied with Messi as the top scorer in the qualifiers with six goals Díazs return brought renewed attacking power to the squad which also leaned on James Rodríguez the creative engine with six assists so far .
Tactical Breakdown
Argentinas tactical setup emphasized controlled possession with Messi expected to create chances from wide areas Colombia relied heavily on flank play and set pieces with Díaz and Rodríguez leading the charge Their aerial strength and midfield pressing were designed to disrupt Argentinas flow and capitalize on transition moments .
Key Players to Watch
- Lionel Messi Looking to break his national team goal drought and gain form for the Club World Cup .
- Luis Díaz Back from injury and aiming to lift Colombias attack .
- James Rodríguez The creative hub vital in both open play and set pieces .
Whats at Stake
Argentina sought to refine team chemistry and keep morale high before traveling to Miami Colombia meanwhile needed all three points to boost their qualification hopes and avoid slipping into the playoff zone .
Looking Ahead
Following the match Messi will return to Inter Miami for the Club World Cup opener on June 14 Argentinas next international window is scheduled for September making this match a critical checkpoint in their competitive calendar .