Imagining a World Cup without Messi

Argentina's woes could turn superstar into sad spectator

BUENOS AIRES - Argentina's lack of success in the South American qualifiers has left everyone contemplating the unthinkable: a World Cup next summer without Lionel Messi.

That dreaded prospect looms large after an uninspiring draw at home to last-place Venezuela this week left Argentina outside the automatic qualifying places for Russia 2018.