(AP) BUENOS AIRES — Although Lionel Messi will travel to Bolivia with the Argentina team on Tuesday for its South American World Cup qualifier, it is still unclear whether he will play.

Lionel Scaloni, the coach of Argentina, stated that he intends to decide whether to play Inter Miami star on Monday.

Messi’s goal gave the world champions a 1-0 victory over Ecuador to start their qualification campaign. Argentina’s 36-year-old captain scored on a free kick.

At a press conference on Sunday, Scaloni declared that Messi could go. He left open the possibility of deciding the striker’s appearance in La Paz on the day of the game.

Leo requested a replacement since he was exhausted the other day, according to Scaloni. But talking to him before games is not necessary. We follow developments.

Scaloni stated that although he would prefer to play the same lineup that defeated Ecuador in Buenos Aires, adjustments may be necessary due to Argentina playing at an altitude of more than 3,000 meters.

In its opening World Cup qualifying game on Friday, Bolivia was defeated 5-1 by Brazil.

A 48-team format will be used for the World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada in 2026. The top six spots in South America will guarantee a direct position. The team in seventh place will compete in an international playoff to secure a spot.