Lionel Messi Spotted At Family Club's Match After World Cup Loss

Lionel Messi made his first public appearance since Argentina's defeat in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final by attending a lower-division football match near his hometown of Rosario. The 39-year-old was present at the Antonio Di Giacomo Stadium to watch a Primera C fixture between Leones FC, a club operated by his family, and Central Cordoba, as he continues to spend time in Argentina following the conclusion of the World Cup.

Attempting to avoid public attention, Messi arrived at the stadium wearing a black hoodie and watched the match from a balcony behind one of the goals. Despite his efforts to remain unnoticed, supporters quickly recognised the football icon. Fans gathered to cheer him, with many capturing the moment on their mobile phones, while television cameras also spotted the Argentine captain during the game.

Messi acknowledged the enthusiastic reception by smiling and waving to the crowd, drawing applause from supporters in attendance. However, his presence did not inspire a positive result for Leones FC, who were defeated 2-0 by Central Cordoba in the Primera C encounter.

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Meanwhile, Major League Soccer (MLS) has confirmed that Messi will not be required to participate in this year's MLS All-Star Game. The league said an exemption had been arranged for players who reached the latter stages of the FIFA World Cup, which was held during the MLS season following a scheduled seven-week break in the domestic competition.

Messi had originally been named among the players selected for the MLS All-Star squad, which will face Liga MX stars in Charlotte, North Carolina. In his absence, the showcase event will feature prominent names including Son Heung-min of Los Angeles FC, Thomas Müller of the Vancouver Whitecaps and Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream, who also captains the United States national team.

The exemption marks a contrast from last year, when Messi and former Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba received one-match suspensions after withdrawing from the MLS All-Star Game at the last minute. This time, the league confirmed that the decision had been agreed in advance due to the scheduling overlap with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allowing Messi additional time to recover after Argentina's campaign.

Also Read: FIFA Opens Probe Into Argentina's Conduct After World Cup Final Loss to Spain