The Argentina national team is counting down the days to resume its South American Qualifiers campaign for the 2026 World Cup. The squad faces crucial encounters against Brazil and Uruguay. However, just a month before this double fixture, concerning news has emerged from Spain: midfielder Gio Lo Celso has suffered an injury in the middle third of his right soleus muscle.
According to reports from Real Betis, Lo Celso underwent medical examinations after their match against Real Sociedad, in which he was substituted by Marc Roca before the start of the second half. While the club clarified that the injury is of intermediate severity, they did not provide an estimated recovery timeline. Instead, they emphasized that his return will depend on his progress, meaning he could be sidelined for several weeks.
Gio Lo Celso’s Season with Real Betis
During the 2024/25 season, Gio Lo Celso played 20 matches for Real Betis across different competitions: 16 in La Liga, two in the UEFA Conference League, and two in the Copa del Rey. He contributed significantly to the team, scoring eight goals—seven in the domestic league—and providing one assist.
Gio Lo Celso’s Career with Argentina
Lo Celso made his debut for the Argentina national team on November 11, 2017, under then-head coach Jorge Sampaoli. Since his first appearance, he has earned 61 caps, scored three goals, and registered 16 assists. His international success includes winning three major titles: the Copa América in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 Finalissima (Trofeo de Campeones). Unfortunately, a last-minute injury prevented him from participating in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, a tournament that saw Argentina crowned as world champions.
Argentina’s Upcoming Fixtures
Argentina has six scheduled matches remaining in the South American Qualifiers. In the March FIFA window, they will travel to Montevideo to face Uruguay before hosting Brazil. The June fixtures include an away match against Chile and a home game against Colombia. Finally, in September, Argentina will conclude their qualifying campaign with games against Venezuela and Ecuador.
Argentina’s Qualifier Schedule:
- Uruguay vs. Argentina (March 21)
- Argentina vs. Brazil (March 25)
- Chile vs. Argentina (June 4)
- Argentina vs. Colombia (June 9)
- Argentina vs. Venezuela (September 9)
- Ecuador vs. Argentina (September 14)
With their qualification for the 2026 World Cup well within reach, Argentina could secure their spot as early as the beginning of 2025. Additionally, there is a possibility of friendly matches outside the qualification schedule, allowing Lionel Scaloni’s squad further opportunities for preparation.
Impact of Lo Celso’s Injury
Lo Celso’s injury presents a challenge for Argentina, as he has been a key player in the midfield setup. His creative abilities and link-up play have been valuable assets in the national team’s recent successes. If his recovery extends beyond expectations, Scaloni may need to explore alternative options to fill the gap in the midfield during the upcoming qualifiers.
As Argentina navigates these crucial fixtures, the team’s depth and resilience will be tested. Fans and coaching staff alike will be closely monitoring Lo Celso’s recovery, hoping for a swift return to action as the national team continues its pursuit of another World Cup appearance.