Argentina vs. Chile: A South American Derby
Argentina, the reigning CONMEBOL champions, will face off against Chile in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifying match at Estadio Mas Monumental in Buenos Aires.
Argentina is currently leading the South American standings, while Chile is struggling in eighth place, two spots away from a direct qualifying spot.
Team News
Argentina will be without Lionel Messi due to an ankle injury and will also miss defenders Nicolas Tagliafico and Leonardo Balerdi. Angel Di Maria and Franco Armani have retired from international football.
Valentin Barco could start at left-back in the absence of Tagliafico.
Chile has also been hit by injuries and retirements. Veteran goalkeeper Claudio Bravo, Alexis Sanchez, and Diego Valdes are out, while Arturo Vidal, Gary Medel, and Francisco Sierralta have been dropped.
Eduardo Vargas and Ben Brereton Diaz are expected to lead the Chilean attack.
Argentina Predicted XI: E. Martinez (GK), Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Barco, De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister, Gonzalez, La. Martinez, Alvarez
Chile Predicted XI: Arias (GK), Isla, Lichnovsky, Maripan, Mena, Nunez, Pulgar, Echeverria, Osorio, Vargas, Brereton Diaz
