Argentina Boss Reveals Key Details on Messi’s Availability and Tactical Approach Ahead of Colombia Clash.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has spoken about Lionel Messi and his role with the national team. It is almost confirmed that Lionel Messi will start in their World Cup 2026 qualifier against Colombia on Tuesday at Estadio Mas Monumental. Messi fans off the bench in Argentina’s 1-0 win over Chile.
The skipper is now expected to return to the starting lineup. Scaloni addressed the media ahead of the crucial match. He not only spoke about the match but also Messi’s involvement in the matches coming, saying:
“The team is now in a moment where it can play in the same way with Leo [Messi] or without Leo, which used to be more complex in the past as we had to change some players. But now we don’t have this necessity and the team works in the same way, that’s good.”
Argentina have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Even so, Albicelestes are expected to field a competitive XI. Scaloni has not revealed the full starting lineup. However, Messi’s inclusion today is almost confirmed, while Nicolás Tagliafico will miss out due to suspension from yellow card accumulation. Meanwhile, Nicolás Otamendi, Enzo Fernández, and Leandro Paredes return from their respective bans.
Also Read: FIFA World Cup CONMEBOL Qualifiers: Best bets, Top Picks & Predictions for Argentina vs Colombia
Messi is likely to play behind Julián Alvarez against Colombia. Alvarez scored the decisive goal against Chile. Lautaro Martínez is expected to be rested as he continues recovering from a thigh injury. Thiago Almada, who assisted Alvarez’s goal last week, may retain his spot, along with Giuliano Simeone.
In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul and Exequiel Palacios should continue. De Paul impressed with a 95% pass accuracy against Chile. He asi created two chances and showcasing his distribution with nine passes into the final third. Palacios contributed defensively, registering 10 recoveries and winning five of six duels.
The defensive line may remain unchanged for the Argentina team. Except one change because of the absence of Tagliafico. Otherwise, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, and Leonardo Balerdi should forming the back four, and Emiliano Martínez in goal.
Scaloni acknowledged the challenge Colombia pose, stating, “It’s a great team, and with great players, and it has a clear style that can put you in trouble.” Colombia currently sit in sixth place. It is the final automatic qualification spot, so they will be motivated to secure a result against the world champions.
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