Lionel Messi returns for the defending FIFA champions Argentina as the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying leaders hit the road to visit Venezuela hoping to retain their slim advantage atop the standings.

All the television and streaming information you need if you want to watch Venezuela host Leo Messi’s Argentina on Thursday.

Preview, predictions, tips, offers and odds for Venezuela vs Argentina as the teams meet in 2026 Fifa World Cup CONMEBOL qualifying.

Lionel Messi returns to the Argentina national team as the Albiceleste get set for a pair of CONMEBOL World Cup qualifiers in October, the first being a road trip to Venezuela on Thursday.

The Chilean national team is at a real low right now with Ricardo Gareca’s side sitting on just five points after eight games played, with just one victory to speak of in that stretch. They have taken just a point from their last five CONMEBOL qualifiers – a home draw with Paraguay.

Two South American nations hoping to turn around long-term slumps clash in Santiago as Brazil, sitting a shocking fifth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying standings, visit Chile.

Colombia are a step up in class though, with Nestor Lorenzo’s side currently unbeaten in the CONMEBOL section and coming off the back of a 2-1 win over reigning Copa America and world champions Argentina last month.

Argentina visits Venezuela looking to maintain the top spot in the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Manager Lionel Scaloni announced his 27 man squad for the upcoming games, unfortunately for him a number of players were ruled out with injuries.

Soccer WCQ Argentina Training

Argentina's national team will face Venezuela this Thursday in the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. While Lionel Messi will be available for selection, coach Lionel Scaloni continues to receive bad news with the loss of several key players.