Argentina will face Venezuela at Estadio Monumental on Thursday during the final stage of the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers in Buenos Aires. This match may be Lionel Messi’s last qualifier at home, adding importance to an already intriguing game with uncertainties for both teams.
The world champions have already secured their spot in the World Cup, but coach Lionel Scaloni is still working on the lineup. Alexis Mac Allister’s late arrival—missing a flight and only participating in one training session—makes it unlikely he will play. Giovani Lo Celso is the logical substitute, although Scaloni is also considering giving young players Nico Paz or Franco Mastantuono a chance to start.
In the attacking lineup, Scaloni must choose between Thiago Almada or Lautaro Martínez. If Almada plays, he will join Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, and one of the younger players in midfield. If Martínez starts, he will partner with Messi and Julián Álvarez in a three-person attack.
Venezuela’s manager, Fernando “Bocha” Batista, faces several challenges, including player absences. Yangel Herrera is injured, while Telasco Segovia and José Martínez are suspended. Jhonder Cádiz and David Martínez are also unavailable, which will require changes in both midfield and attack. Tomás Rincón’s experience and Yeferson Soteldo’s skills will be important, while veteran Salomón Rondón will lead the attack.
Batista spoke to local media about the upcoming challenge, stating, “We are facing the best national team in the world, but we came here to compete,” as reported by ESPN.
The Monumental stadium will set the stage for a memorable night: potentially Messi’s farewell in World Cup qualifying at home and Venezuela’s opportunity to challenge the reigning champions on their turf.
Argentina Probable XI
Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Nicolás Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Nico Paz or Giovani Lo Celso or Franco Mastantuono; Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez.
Venezuela Probable XI
Romo; Aramburu, Wilker Ángel, Ferraresi, Navarro; Rincón, Cásseres, Soteldo, Savarino, Bello; Salomón Rondón.
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