Get the injury news, predicted lineups, and key match details for World Cup Qualifying game - Argentina vs. Uruguay.
Argentina continue their journey for 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification with a blockbuster clash against Uruguay in Montevideo on Friday night. The reigning World Cup champions head into the game in strong form and will be eager to solidify their position at the top of the CONMEBOL standings.
Having collected 25 points from their qualifying campaign so far, Lionel Scaloni’s side sit comfortably in first place. With a solid defensive unit and star-studded attack led by Lionel Messi, Argentina remain the team to beat in South America. La Albiceleste secured a narrow 1-0 win over ninth-placed Peru in their last qualifying match, maintaining their hold on the top spot. Meanwhile, Uruguay delivered an impressive performance by holding Brazil to a 1-1 draw on the road.
Victory in Uruguay would see Argentina take an enormous step towards booking their ticket for the 2026 World Cup. However, Uruguay are enjoying a revival of their own under Marcelo Bielsa. Sitting in second place with 20 points, Uruguay will present a formidable challenge for Argentina. A win for Uruguay would not only boost their World Cup qualification hopes but also cut Argentina’s lead at the top of the standings to just two points. Uruguay have already proven their ability to beat the world champions, having defeated Argentina earlier in the qualifying campaign, a result that shocked many.
Argentina’s talisman Lionel Messi was not included in Argentina’s squad for these qualifiers after medical scans revealed a minor adductor injury. Messi sustained the injury during Inter Miami’s 2-1 victory over Atlanta United. Alongside Messi, Lionel Scaloni will also be without several other key players for the clash against Uruguay. Paulo Dybala (Roma), Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis), and Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate) have all been ruled out due to injury concerns.
Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez has also withdrawn from the squad after suffering a hamstring injury, dealing another blow to Argentina’s attacking options.
Argentina probable starting lineup:
Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Correa, Gonzalez, Alvarez
READ MORE: Manchester United Eye Jobe Bellingham as Part of Summer Midfield Overhaul!
Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte will miss Friday’s clash against Argentina due to suspension, having picked up an accumulation of yellow cards during the qualifying campaign. Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo is set for a long-awaited return to international action. The defender is expected to make his first appearance for Uruguay since July, after being sidelined for the team’s last six World Cup qualifiers due to injury.
Uruguay probable starting lineup:
Rochet; Nandez, R. Araujo, Gimenez, Saracchi; Valverde, Bentancur; Pellistri, Aguirre, M. Araujo; Nunez
Odds via BetMGM
| Teams | Moneyline | Total Goals |
| Uruguay | Win: +145 Draw: +190 | Over 2.5: +155 Under 2.5: -227 |
| Argentina | Win: +210 Draw: +190 | Over 3.5: +400 Under 3.5: -666 |
soccer
