Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign hasn’t been perfect, dropping points in four games. Uruguay aims to capitalize on this when they meet on Friday, hoping to climb to the top of the table. Lionel Messi, the top scorer in qualifying, will miss the match for Argentina due to an injury sustained playing for Inter Miami. However, with Julian Alvarez in excellent form, Argentina still possesses significant attacking firepower.
Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has regained its status as a strong South American team. However, they are seeking more consistency after drawing three of their last five matches. Their inconsistency is evident in their goalscoring record – they scored more against Colombia (three) than in their other four matches combined (two). The form of striker Darwin Nunez is a factor, but Uruguay needs to identify another consistent attacking threat as the World Cup approaches.
To become serious contenders, Uruguay needs to develop greater consistency, mirroring their opponents’ established identity. Even without Messi, Argentina has a clear game plan and talented players like Alvarez ready to step up. Coach Lionel Scaloni is also strategically integrating young talents like Nico Paz, ensuring a strong foundation for Argentina’s future while maintaining current success.
Here are the key storylines and match details:
Match Details
- 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
Storylines
Uruguay: Uruguay’s defense is capable of containing Argentina, but the crucial question is their attacking output. When Darwin Nunez is in form, Uruguay can challenge any team. However, they need more consistent performance from their striker to become genuine World Cup dark horses.
Uruguay predicted XI: Sergio Rochet, Nahitan Nandez, Ronald Araujo, Jose Gimenez, Marcelo Saracchi, Rodrigo Bentancur, Fede Valverde, Maxi Araujo, Darwin Nunez, Facoundo Pellistri, Rodrigo Aguirre
Argentina: Every match without Messi provides a valuable learning experience for Argentina. With a talented squad that includes young players, they have a great opportunity to extend their dominance. The absence of Lautaro Martinez also presents a challenge, but Argentina has successfully overcome previous obstacles.
Argentina 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
Prediction
Expect a tight, low-scoring game where defenses dominate. A draw seems like a reasonable outcome for both teams. Pick: Uruguay 0, Argentina 0
