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Sports Desk, May 31, 2025 : World champions Argentina have secured their spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Chile and Colombia, head coach Lionel Scaloni has announced the national team’s squad. A notable highlight is the return of captain Lionel Messi, who missed the previous squad due to injury but is currently in top form with Inter Miami.
Argentina is scheduled to face Chile on June 6 in Santiago de Chile at 7:00 AM Bangladesh time, followed by a match against Colombia on June 11 at the Monumental Stadium, starting at 6:00 AM Bangladesh time.
The squad features several surprises, including the inclusion of Belgrano’s young defender Mariano Troilo and River Plate’s rising midfielder Franco Mastantuono, both yet to make their international debuts. Their recent performances have earned them a place in Scaloni’s plans.
However, four players have been excluded from the preliminary squad: Nicolas Dominguez (injury), Alejandro Garnacho, Valentin Castellanos, and Alexis Mac Allister (partial injury).
Scaloni’s squad reflects a balanced blend of youth and experience, showcasing his strategic vision for the 2026 World Cup preparations.
Argentina’s Preliminary Squad: Lionel Messi, Emiliano Martinez, Walter Benitez, Geronimo Rulli, Mariano Troilo, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nahuel Molina, Leonardo Balerdi, Valentin Barco, Juan Foyth, Kevin Lemonaco, Nicolas Tagliafico, Facundo Medina, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Barrenechea, Enzo Fernandez, Exequiel Palacios, Thiago Almada, Nico Paz, Rodrigo De Paul, Giovanni Lo Celso, Giuliano Simeone, Angel Correa, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez, Franco Mastantuono, and Lautaro Martinez.
AI/MR
