{
  "id": 15026642,
  "title": "Argentina to begin post-Messi era with friendlies against Uruguay and Costa Rica",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/16/argentina-to-begin-post-messi-era-with-friendlies-against-uruguay-and",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-10-16T18:57:22.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Buenos Aires Times",
    "slug": "buenos-aires-times",
    "url": "https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/sports/argentina-to-begin-post-messi-era-with-friendlies-against-uruguay-and-costa-rica.phtml"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In November, Argentina will commence the post-Lionel Messi era with friendly matches against Uruguay and Costa Rica, according to the Argentine Football Association (AFA). Lionel Scaloni's team is set to open its international window on November 13 against Uruguay at a venue in Buenos Aires yet to be determined. The second friendly, against Costa Rica, is scheduled for November 17 in Córdoba, a central city in Argentina. These two matches symbolize the transition for Argentina following their World Cup 2026 runners-up finish. The legendary forward Lionel Messi concluded his time with the national team on October 6 in a World Cup qualifier against Benin, leaving the pitch with a penalty kick and two assists. Scaloni's coaching future remains uncertain, as his contract is set to expire in December. Following the 2026 North American World Cup, the coach expressed uncertainty about continuing in the role. However, he reassured fans in late September that he had entered discussions with AFA president Claudio Chiqui Tapia, and both parties indicated a willingness to extend the coach's contract.",
  "summary": "Lionel Scaloni’s side will play its first matches since emotional farewell to Lionel Messi; Friendlies against Uruguay and Costa lined up for November. Leer más",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}