The challenging task that Lionel Messi and Argentina will face against Bolivia

Lionel Messi is currently in Argentina participating in the FIFA International Break with his National Team. The ‘Albiceleste’ led by Lionel Scaloni, faced Ecuador last night in the first round of the CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

With a last-minute goal from Messi, the current world champions left Buenos Aires victorious with the first three points in the bag. Since Messi's arrival in MLS, success has followed him, and his footballing quality remains evident.

To such an extent that his quality still guarantees him a place in Argentina's starting lineup. It's worth noting that at 36 years old, Lionel Messi still possesses the physical condition to play at the highest level, as he has demonstrated with Inter Miami.

However, in the upcoming match of these CONMEBOL qualifiers, the South American team will face a challenge that goes beyond football and it's a a physical one.

The challenge Messi faces

After the victory against Ecuador, Argentina will travel to La Paz to face Bolivia in the second round of the Qualifiers. In recent years, the Andean team has been growing and has demonstrated its strength. As a result, they have turned their home into a true fortress where many consider it a nightmare to play. It's important to note that the capital of Bolivia sits at an elevation of 3,635 meters (11,926 ft) above sea level, making it the highest capital city in the world. The well-known issue of altitude sickness affects many who are not accustomed to it, so Lionel Messi will indeed face a challenge in his next match.