Central defender Lisandro Martínez has been excluded from the Argentine national team lineup, positioning Nicolás Otamendi as a starter for the match against Paraguay. Additionally, Scaloni also regrets the absences of Germán Pezzella and Nicolás González, adding significant losses for the upcoming game.
Although qualification for the World Cup is not yet secured, Argentina has the opportunity to ensure its position if it achieves a good result in Paraguay and then at home against Peru. However, the challenge on Paraguayan soil will not be easy, as Albirroja remains unbeaten in recent matches under Alfaro's direction and is expected to put up a fight.
With Lionel Messi leading the team and the return of Emiliano Martínez to the goal, Argentina is preparing to face an improving Paraguay since Gustavo Alfaro took over as coach. The Albiceleste tops the South American qualifying table with 22 points, while Paraguay seeks to consolidate its standing and secure a spot in the World Cup.
It is expected that Alfaro will keep the core of the team that has shown excellent performance recently, with players like Enciso and Almirón leading the attack. Messi, coming off a hat trick in the last match, will be crucial in the game. Meanwhile, the major news for the Argentine team is the return of Emiliano Martínez, recently named the best goalkeeper in the world.
Scaloni will likely field most of the usual starters, with Otamendi and Tagliafico in defense, supported by Molina and Romero. The main uncertainty lies in the center of the attack, where Pitta and Sanabria are competing for a spot. Despite the absences, Argentina aims to maintain its good momentum and secure key points in the final stretch of the World Cup qualifiers.
