Football superstar Lionel Messi is expected to be ready for Argentina's first match at the World Cup, which starts on June 11.
Messi will not feature in the friendly against Honduras on Sunday, while he is likely to play a few minutes in the friendly against Iceland on June 10.
Support the TIME. Preserve the truth.
Professional journalism is in the public interest. Your support helps it remain independent and credible. Contribute too. 1 euro makes a difference.
Letter to the Reader — Why We're Asking for Your Support ContributeArgentina begins its World Cup title defense against Algeria on June 17.
Along with Argentina and Algeria, in Group J, are also Austria and Jordan.
"His presence against Honduras is practically ruled out. However, depending on his progress, it remains to be seen whether he can play at least a few minutes against Iceland. With constant monitoring by physiotherapist Luis Garcia and fitness trainer Luis Martin, the main steps in the recovery process will be rest, careful work with a gradual increase in load and patience. The goal is clear - to have Messi fully ready for the first match," writes the Argentine media outlet "Ole".
Messi and his arch-rival, Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, are expected to set a record by playing in their sixth World Cup.
There were fears that Messi might not feature in the World Cup after the injury he suffered weeks ago.
The Inter Miami player complained of a hamstring injury in his left leg. But Messi is expected to be ready for Argentina's first match at the World Cup, which is being held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.