Without Messi: Uruguay vs. Argentina Prediction and Lineups

The 2026 World Cup qualifier between Uruguay and Argentina, which will be played on 22 March 2025 at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, is expected to be a very interesting and crucial match for both teams.

Uruguay currently sit second in the standings with 20 points from 12 games (W5, D5, L2). They have a strong home record and are unbeaten in their last six games at their own stadium. Coach Marcelo Bielsa has built a solid side and Darwin Núñez has been the mainstay with five goals in these qualifiers.

Argentina top the standings with 25 points, but they will be without Lionel Messi, who has a minor muscle injury and will not be available for this game. Messi is joined on the sidelines by Paulo Dybala through injury. Despite losing two key players, Argentina still have a strong squad with plenty of experience in the form of Lautaro Martínez and Alexis Mac Allister.

This match is not only important in terms of points, but also has the emotional value of a classic South American derby. Uruguay will be looking to take advantage of their home advantage to pick up three points and move closer to Argentina in the standings. Argentina, on the other hand, will be looking to maintain their position at the top of the standings without their two stars.

Facts and statistics

• Uruguay have always won their three meetings with Argentina
• Eight of Uruguay’s 12 matches in 2026 World Cup qualifying have ended with 2 or more goals
• Argentina have conceded just once in 12 qualifying matches for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers
• Argentina have scored first in 10 of their 12 qualifying matches for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Predicted Lineups and Predictions Footem.in

Uruguay (4-3-3) : Rochet; Varela, Gimenez, Olivera, Saracchi; Valverde, Ugarte, Bentancur; Pellistri, Nunez, Aguirre.

Argentina (4-3-3) : Martinez; Montiel, Balerdi, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Correa, Martinez, Alvarez.

Predicted Score: Argentina 1 – 1 Uruguay