Argentina predicted lineup vs Uruguay: will Messi play?

The present international break brings with it the chance for teams in South America to move one step closer to World Cup 2026 qualification. Argentina have a tough task ahead of them as they will face both Uruguay (KO 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT.) and Brazil in less than a week.

Ahead of the first game, against Marcelo Bielsa’s side, we take a look at who is in line to start for the World Cup holders and answer the question of whether Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi, who has a fantastic record against Uruguay, will start the match in Buenos Aires (hint: it looks positive).

Argentina look to continue positive form

The famous home of Boca Juniors, La Bombonera, will be the proud host of what is an intriguing tie against two fascinating teams. Argentina continue their winning run and it looks like they’re still not over the high that comes with winning football’s biggest prize. They are top of the CONMEBOL World Cup qualification rankings as things stand with a 100% record after 4 games and unless something drastic happens between now and the end of the campaign, expect them to qualify with ease at the top of the group.

As for Uruguay, they look completely refreshed after a terrible World Cup campaign saw Diego Alonso leave his role to be replaced by Marcelo ‘El Loco’ Bielsa. The former Leeds United manager has overseen an upturn in form for his side who seem to have taken no time at all to adapt to his high-octane style of play. They are on 7 points after 4 games and sit in second behind their opponents, with Brazil and Venezuela also sharing the same tally in the table.

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Will Messi play against Uruguay?

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was positive ahead of the game when asked this very question, saying that Messi, who trained as normal, “looks fit and healthy” while adding that “if he is fit to play, he will play”, giving us a huge indication that the 8-time Ballon d’Or winner is indeed set to start the game. Reports in Argentina concur with the general feeling ahead of kick-off, so here’s our predicted line-up for the game: