
Argentina may be on the brink of securing their spot in the 2026 World Cup, leading Conmebol World Cup qualifying without their superstar Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez. Messi, the leading scorer in World Cup qualifying, is sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained playing for Inter Miami. While Argentina boasts a wealth of attacking talent, including emerging player Nico Paz and form-hitter Julian Alvarez, the absence of key players places extra pressure on the squad, especially when facing a robust Uruguay defense. This strategic decision aims to preserve Messi’s health for both the Club World Cup and the upcoming World Cup in 2026.
Argentina’s Predicted XI
Emi Martinez, Nahuel Molenna, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Thursday, March 21
- Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Estadio Centenario – Montevideo, Uruguay
- Live Stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Uruguay +165; Draw +180; Argentina +205