Argentina, leading the Conmebol World Cup qualifiers and close to securing their spot for the 2026 World Cup, will need to gain points without key players Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez. Messi, the top scorer in the qualifiers with six goals, is sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Inter Miami.
Despite Messi’s absence and Martinez also being unavailable, Argentina has a wealth of attacking talent. Young player Nico Paz has joined the squad, and Julian Alvarez is in excellent form for Atletico Madrid. However, facing a strong Uruguay defense will put increased pressure on the Argentinian attack.
Messi’s hamstring injury occurred during a game against Atlanta United. While not serious and following a period of rest, Argentina is prioritizing his long-term fitness given his age of 37. The focus is to ensure Messi is fit for both Inter Miami’s Club World Cup participation and Argentina’s 2026 World Cup campaign.
Missing these qualifying matches is a strategic decision to safeguard Messi’s fitness in the long run and to provide opportunities for the development of Argentina’s next generation of soccer players.
Argentina Predicted Starting Lineup
Emi Martinez, Nahuel Molenna, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez
Match Details
- Date: Thursday, March 21
- Location: Estadio Centenario — Montevideo, Urugay
- Live stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Uruguay +165; Draw +180; Argentina +205
Dominic Ashworth