When Lionel Scaloni, head coach of Argentina national team unveiled a 29‑player roster on August 28, 2025, the buzz in Buenos Aires was palpable. The list, released by Sports Illustrated’s Max Mallow, pits the reigning World Cup champions against Venezuela on September 4 at Hard Rock Stadium and Ecuador on September 9 in Guayaquil – both crucial steps on the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Squad Overview
Scaloni’s selection blends seasoned veterans with a handful of fresh faces. In goal, he kept the trio of Emiliano Martínez, goalkeeper of Aston Villa FC, Walter Benítez (Crystal Palace) and Gerónimo Rulli (Olympique de Marseille) to guard the net.
Defensively, the line‑up features Cristian Romero of Tottenham Hotspur anchoring the centre, alongside Nicolás Otamendi from SL Benfica. Full‑backs include the marauding Nahuel Molina (Atlético Madrid) and the experienced Nicolas Tagliafico (Olympique Lyonnais), giving Scaloni flexibility for a back‑three or a traditional back‑four.
Key Players and Emerging Talents
The most eye‑catching inclusion is, of course, Lionel Messi, now plying his trade with Inter Miami CF in MLS. At 38, the Argentine maestro still commands the midfield, and his partnership with fellow Inter teammate Rodrigo De Paul is expected to spur the attack.
Joining the marquee names is 21‑year‑old Franco Mastantuolo, a Real Madrid prospect hailed by FourFourTwo as “perhaps the heir to Messi’s play‑making role.” Mastantuolo, a right‑winger, will likely get minutes alongside Julian Álvarez in the upcoming fixtures.
Other notable inclusions are Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Exequiel Palacios (Leverkusen) and Leandro Paredes (Boca Juniors), each bringing a blend of creativity and defensive solidity.
What the Cuts Reveal
Two big names missed out: Facundo Medina (RC Lens) was ruled out due to lingering fitness concerns, while Ángel Correa (Atlético Madrid) was omitted after a dip in form. Their absence hints at Scaloni’s desire for a squad that can sustain high‑intensity pressing across the two games.
The Venezuelan side, meanwhile, left veteran Salomón Rondón (35) and Tomás Rincón (36) off the October roster, stripping them of 251 caps collectively. Their omission underscores the growing reliance on younger MLS talent – players like Daniel Pereira (Austin FC) and Kevin Kelsy (Portland Timbers) are set to face the Albicelestes.
Tactical Outlook for the Venezuela Match
Scaloni is expected to line up in a classic 4‑4‑2 against Venezuela. The projected XI starts with Emiliano Martínez in goal; MOLINA, ROMERO, OTAMENDI and TAGLIAFICO forming the back line; Mastantuolo and De Paul flanking a midfield quartet of Nicolás González, Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Álvarez providing width.
FourFourTwo’s analysis suggests Argentina will dominate possession, using Messi’s vision to unlock a Venezuelan defense that was exposed in their recent 3‑0 loss at Hard Rock Stadium. The expectation is for another clean sheet and a three‑goal haul – a prediction echoed by Ewan Ross‑Murray of Sports Illustrated.
Ecuador Clash and Potential Lineup Changes
The September 9 away fixture in Guayaquil takes place at the Estadio Monumental Banco Pichincha. Unlike the Venezuela game, Messi is listed as a probable absentee due to a minor strain, opening the door for Lautaro Martínez (Inter Milan) to start up front.
Scaloni’s preferred 4‑2‑3‑1 for the Ecuador match would see Lautaro Martínez leading the line, with Messi (if fit) roaming behind him. The midfield duo of De Paul and Mac Allister would shield the defense, while Mastantuolo and Álvarez provide attacking thrust on the wings.
FourFourTwo notes that Argentina’s depth allows Scaloni to adapt on the fly – if the attacking trio struggles, a back‑three with Molina, Roméo (real name?), and Tagliafico could be deployed, turning the formation into a 3‑5‑2.
Historical Stakes and What’s at Stake
Argentina entered the qualifiers as the defending champions, having lifted the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Finishing atop the CONMEBOL group positions them one step away from securing a direct berth to the 2026 tournament, which will be co‑hosted by Mexico, Canada and the United States.
Winning both the Venezuela and Ecuador games would not only lock in qualification but also keep alive the tantalising prospect of back‑to‑back World Cup titles – a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962 after their 1958 triumph.
Beyond the silverware chase, the matches serve as a litmus test for Scaloni’s rebuilding project. Integrating young prospects like Mastantuolo while maintaining the winning mentality of veterans could shape the squad’s identity for the next four years.
What’s Next for La Albiceleste
After the September fixtures, Argentina faces Brazil in late October, a showdown that typically decides the final CONMEBOL qualification spots. Regardless of the outcomes, the coaching staff will likely use the remaining internationals to fine‑tune the squad, especially if Messi’s fitness remains uncertain.
Fans can expect a flurry of media engagements, with Messi scheduled to appear on ESPN’s “Soccer Saturday” to discuss his preparation. Meanwhile, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has hinted at a possible squad rotation ahead of the November friendly against Mexico, giving further opportunities to the next‑generation talent pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Argentina cope if Messi is unavailable against Ecuador?
Without Messi, Scaloni is set to start Lautaro Martínez up front, with Franco Mastantuolo and Julian Álvarez providing width. The midfield duo of De Paul and Mac Allister will take on more creative responsibilities, aiming to keep the team’s possession‑based style intact.
What does the exclusion of Facundo Medina and Ángel Correa say about the squad selection?
Both players missed the cut due to fitness and form concerns, indicating Scaloni’s priority on a fully fit, high‑tempo lineup capable of executing aggressive pressing across two quick fixtures.
Why is the Venezuela match being played at Hard Rock Stadium?
The venue offers a large capacity and modern facilities, making it ideal for a high‑profile qualifier that also serves as a showcase for MLS’s growing fanbase, especially since both Messi and several other Argentine players are based in the United States.
What are the chances Argentina will secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup?
Having already topped the CONMEBOL group, Argentina needs just a win or draw in the final two games to lock in direct qualification. Statistically, their win‑percentage this cycle sits at 78%, making them strong favourites.
How does Franco Mastantuolo fit into the long‑term plans for Argentina?
Mastantuolo is viewed as a potential successor to Messi’s creative role. His technical ability, vision, and experience within Real Madrid’s youth system make him a prime candidate to lead the attack once the Argentine legend retires.
