Venezuela vs Argentina for World Cup 2018 Qualifying: Leo Messi Uncertain in Second Game After Return; Match Preview, Predictions, TV Info and Live Streaming
Can Messi battle through pain to keep Argentina on top?
The CONMEBOL 2018 World Cup Qualifier is far from over, but Argentina may well be on its way to redemption. The country had slipped into a cold streak the past few years, losing back-to-back Copa America Finals bouts.
Their last loss, handed to them by Chile, was especially hurtful to Argentinian legend Lionel Messi. A missed penalty kick by one of the top football superstars in the world cost his country the coveted title in the tournaments' 100th year.
With a surprising decision to come back home, Barcelona's prized forward may raise his team from mediocrity to a solid chance at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
Still got it
29 years old is considered a ripe age for football players. A lot of stars who had sustained illustrious careers suffered their decline at this age, including the likes of Beckham, Ronaldinho and Ronaldo.
Messi, however, wants to strike that myth down. The five-time Ballon D'Or awardee is still putting up a consistent performance with Barcelona at the Spanish La Liga. He currently has two goals to his name in the young season.
Furthermore, Messi had decided to reverse his earlier decision to retire from international play, a move he initiated when his team lost the last Copa America Finals. He said he was not looking to fool anyone, and that the retirement was not fake. He said he just could not help but come back after fans showed continued support for him.
The superstar came back in style, scoring the winning goal for Argentina three minutes before halftime and putting away Uruguay 1-0. The latter squad, led by 2015 top La Liga scorer Luis Suarez, never bounced back from the Messi goal, despite having the advantage in the second half. Argentinian Paulo Dybala was shown the red card in the first half, cutting the team to 10 men.
Cruise control or upset?
Messi, however, is in doubt for their matchup against Venezuela. The forward had been battling a groin injury during their match against Uruguay. Manager Edgardo Bauza said they need about 48 hours to monitor the superstar, but they would not risk him.
Still, La Albiceleste is now at the top of the CONMEBOL standings with 14 points, and their next opponent had not won a single game in seven. Venezuela is now at -12 points, placing last in the standings and suffering another crushing defeat against Colombia on Thursday.
The surging Colombia, standing third in the tournament, delivered a 2-0 sweep against Venezuela with the heroics of Carlos Bacca and James Rodriguez. The losing side, meanwhile, suffered two dismissals in the game. Rolf Feltscher was sent off on a second booking, while Venezuelan defender Wilker Angel was shown two yellow cards.
With both teams suffering from handicaps, it could either turn into an expected win for the Argentinian side or an upset from the bottom of the standings.
Fans can watch the matchup at 7 p.m. EST on beIN Sports, Sling TV or online at beIN Sports Connect.
