Argentina vs Burkina Faso: Messi Rests as U23s Replace Refusing Team

Lionel Messi will not play for Argentina against Burkina Faso on Saturday night, resting during his penultimate international window. Reports confirm he did not participate in the 4-0 victory over Bolivia and is scheduled to sit out the match at Monumental Stadium.

The absence stems from a chaotic pre-match incident where the senior Burkina Faso squad refused to travel to Buenos Aires due to lack of compensation and logistical issues, with only one player boarding their flight. Consequently, Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni activated his under-23 roster as an alternative opponent. The young team traveled separately but faced significant delays in Casablanca before arriving late for the 7:00 PM kickoff.

Argentina has confirmed Emiliano Martínez will start in goal with Agustín Giay and Cristian Romero leading the defense, while Julian Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez are expected to begin attacking play. In contrast, Burkina Faso's senior squad was replaced by their U23 side after the federation intervened to get them on the plane.

While Messi prepares for his official farewell match against Benin later in October 6, fans will witness a shift toward younger talent as Argentina faces this delayed and youth-led African opposition.