BUENOS AIRES – Lionel Messi is expected to start in Argentina’s upcoming friendly against Zambia, while Rodrigo De Paul will start the match on the bench, head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Monday. The decision comes as Scaloni fine-tunes his squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a tournament he indicated he has a “quite clear” vision for.
The announcement, made during a press conference, signaled a willingness by Scaloni to experiment and assess different combinations as Argentina prepares for the expanded 48-team World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. Argentina is looking to build on their recent success, including winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, and maintain momentum as they navigate the qualifying stages and approach the tournament. The focus now is on solidifying a team dynamic and identifying players who can contribute effectively in various roles.
Scaloni revealed he has already narrowed down a preliminary list of 55 players from which he will select the final 26-man squad for the World Cup. He emphasized the importance of the match against Zambia, scheduled to be played at La Bombonera stadium, as an opportunity to evaluate the team’s performance following their recent victory against Mauritania. He wants to determine if the Mauritania match represented a temporary dip in form or a more significant issue that needs addressing. “We need to see if it was a bad game or a bad moment,” Scaloni stated, according to Clarín.
Messi’s Continued Importance
Despite the ongoing process of squad evaluation, Messi remains central to Scaloni’s plans. The Inter Miami forward continues to be a pivotal figure for the national team, and his presence in the starting lineup underscores his enduring importance. At 36, Messi’s ability to influence matches and inspire his teammates remains undiminished. His leadership and experience will be crucial as Argentina aims to defend their World Cup title.
The decision to start Messi also allows Scaloni to assess his interplay with other key players, particularly in the attacking third. Experimentation with different formations and tactical approaches will be vital in ensuring Argentina can adapt to various opponents and game situations. The coach is clearly prioritizing finding the optimal system to maximize Messi’s impact and unlock the team’s full potential.
De Paul’s Role and Midfield Dynamics
The decision to have De Paul start on the bench is a notable one, given his importance to the team in recent years. The Atlético Madrid midfielder has been a consistent performer for Argentina, known for his energy, work rate, and ability to link play between defense, and attack. However, Scaloni’s move suggests he is exploring alternative midfield options and assessing the depth of talent available.
This could be an opportunity to give playing time to other midfielders vying for a spot in the World Cup squad, such as Enzo Fernández or Alexis Mac Allister. Scaloni is likely evaluating how different midfield combinations perform in terms of creativity, defensive solidity, and overall balance. The coach is keen to build a robust and versatile midfield capable of controlling possession, breaking up opposition attacks, and providing support to the forwards.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
The 2026 World Cup will be a unique challenge for Argentina, not only due to the expanded format but also because of the increased competition. The tournament will feature more teams than ever before, and Argentina will face a diverse range of opponents with varying styles of play. Scaloni’s focus on squad depth and tactical flexibility is a direct response to these challenges.
The upcoming friendly against Zambia is just one step in a long process of preparation. Argentina will continue to play a series of friendlies and competitive matches in the lead-up to the World Cup, allowing Scaloni to refine his squad and fine-tune his tactics. The coach is committed to building a team that is not only talented but also resilient, adaptable, and capable of performing under pressure.
Scaloni’s comments suggest he is already well-advanced in his planning for the tournament. Having a clear idea of his core group of players allows him to focus on specific areas for improvement and address any weaknesses. The coach is confident that Argentina has the quality and determination to compete for the title once again.
Next Steps for La Albiceleste
Following the match against Zambia, Argentina will continue their preparations with further friendlies and qualifying matches for the 2026 World Cup. The CONMEBOL qualifying campaign is ongoing, and Argentina will need to maintain their strong form to secure their place in the tournament. The next confirmed fixture is a World Cup qualifier against Uruguay on June 6, 2026, at the Estadio Centenario in Montevideo. Details regarding further friendly matches will be announced in the coming weeks.
The road to the 2026 World Cup is long and demanding, but Argentina appears to be well-positioned to make a strong challenge. With Messi leading the charge and Scaloni at the helm, La Albiceleste will be aiming to add another chapter to their illustrious history. What are your thoughts on Scaloni’s squad selections? Share your opinions and predictions in the comments below.
