Expected lineup for the match between Argentina and Venezuela in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Updated lineup for the match between Venezuela and Argentina.
A wave of injuries and suspensions has hit Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup South American qualifiers this October, forcing coach Lionel Scaloni to reorganize his squad. In his final training session in Miami, the Albiceleste boss was considering a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3 formation.
In defence, Geronimo Rulli will start as goalkeeper due to the suspension of Emiliano Martinez, while the four defenders have been confirmed as Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez and Nicolas Tagliafico. In this case, Otamendi replaces the suspended Cristian Romero (5 yellow cards) and Tagliafico returns at left-back after missing the games against Chile and Colombia due to injury.
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In midfield, the two undisputed names are Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez. The former is an all-rounder for the national team, while the latter has established himself as a very good midfielder who balances defence and attack. However, the other position is questionable. Alexis Mac Allister, who is usually guaranteed a starting spot, was ruled out of this match due to an adductor discomfort he picked up in Liverpool’s win over Crystal Palace.
This leaves the remaining spot for Leandro Paredes or Giovani Lo Celso, two players with different characteristics who could offer variations to the team. However, it is also possible that both will start. Scaloni is considering the idea of switching from 4-3-3 to 4-4-2. This would leave a midfield of De Paul, Paredes, Enzo and Lo Celso, fighting for the final spot in the middle of the pitch.
If he were to play a 4-4-2 at the Monumental de Maturin, Scaloni would lean towards Lionel Messi, who is at his peak after an ankle injury, and Lautaro Martinez, who has the upper hand over Julian Alvarez. However, Scaloni could also combine all three in attack if he decides to play a 4-3-3, with only one position for Paredes or Lo Celso, with the Atletico Madrid striker starting.
Expected lineup
Venezuela: Rafael Romo; Jon Aramburu, Yordan Osorio, Nahuel Ferraresi, Miguel Navarro, Cristian Casseres; Eduard Bello, Jose Martinez, Telasco Segovia; Yefferson Soteldo, Salomon Rondon.
Argentina: Geronimo Rulli; Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Leandro Paredes, Giovani Lo Celso (or Julian Alvarez); Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez.