Buenos Aires, Aug 19 (V7N) – The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced a 31-man preliminary squad for its final two matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, against Venezuela and Ecuador in September.

Lionel Messi remains in the squad, while coach Lionel Scaloni has introduced a new face: Argentine striker Jose Manuel Lopez of Brazilian club Palmeiras. The 24-year-old forward, called up to the national team for the first time, has been one of Palmeiras’ standout players this season, scoring 15 goals in 42 matches.

Attacking midfielder Valentin Carboni also returns to the team after a long absence. However, Enzo Fernandez, serving a two-match ban after receiving a red card against Colombia in June, has not been included. Paulo Dybala was also left out of the squad.

Argentina has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The team will host Venezuela on September 4, followed by an away match against Ecuador on September 9.

END/SMA/AJ