Miami, Jul 03 (V7N) — Defending champions Argentina are expected to return to a full-strength lineup when they face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Saturday, with head coach Lionel Scaloni likely to recall several key players rested during the group stage.
The three-time world champions will take on World Cup debutants Cape Verde at 4:00 a.m. Bangladesh time in Miami, USA.
Scaloni rotated his squad in Argentina's final group-stage match, a 3-1 victory over Jordan, resting captain Lionel Messi for the first half while giving Julián Álvarez a starting role in attack. Regular starters including Rodrigo De Paul, Thiago Almada, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Nahuel Molina and Facundo Medina were also left out of the starting lineup.
With the tournament entering the knockout stage, Argentina are expected to revert to their strongest available team.
Emiliano Martínez is set to start in goal, with Nahuel Molina and Facundo Medina occupying the right and left full-back positions respectively. Cristian Romero is expected to partner Lisandro Martínez in central defense.
There had been concerns over Romero's fitness after he left the field with a knee injury during the match against Austria. However, the defender has returned to training and is reportedly fit for the Round of 32 clash.
In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández and Thiago Almada are all expected to return to the starting XI.
Captain Lionel Messi is also likely to reclaim his place in attack alongside Lautaro Martínez, who strengthened his case for selection by scoring against Jordan.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Scaloni said the final lineup would depend on the flow of the match and Messi's physical condition.
Probable Argentina XI (4-4-2):
Emiliano Martínez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Thiago Almada; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez.
END/SMA/AJ
