Lionel Messi's Return Boosts Argentina's World Cup Qualifying Campaign

Lionel Messi has recovered from an ankle injury and will be returning to captain Argentina in their CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia. Messi, who missed August's qualifiers against Chile and Colombia, plays for Inter Miami. Argentina recently won their 16th Copa America title by defeating Colombia.

Argentina received a significant boost with the return of Lionel Messi for their upcoming CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia, the Argentine Football Association announced on Wednesday. The 37-year-old superstar, who plays for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami, has recovered from an ankle injury that sidelined him during the Copa America final.

Previously, Messi was notably absent from Argentina's squad for qualifiers against Chile and Colombia in August due to the same injury. His return is timely as the national team aims to fortify their World Cup aspirations.

In a recent triumph, Argentina secured their 16th Copa America title by defeating Colombia 1-0. The squad for the forthcoming qualifiers includes prominent names like Geronimo Rulli, Rodrigo De Paul, and Julian Alvarez, among others, with Messi once again leading the charge.

(With inputs from agencies.)