- Venue: Estadio Mas Monumental (Estadio Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Fixture: Argentina vs Colombia, FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers (CONMEBOL)
Match Preview
Argentina, the reigning world champions, host Colombia in Buenos Aires for their penultimate home fixture of the CONMEBOL World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign. With Argentina already assured of their place at the World Cup and sitting comfortably atop the standings, the pressure is off for Lionel Scaloni’s side, but pride and momentum remain at stake as they seek to extend a formidable home record and maintain their winning streak.
The Albiceleste come into this encounter on the back of a hard-fought 1-0 win away to Chile, a result that marked their fourth consecutive victory in the qualifiers. Julian Alvarez was the match-winner, and the team showcased their trademark defensive solidity and controlled possession. Argentina have now won nine straight competitive matches at home since their last defeat in November 2023, and have scored three or more goals in three of their last four home qualifiers. Lionel Messi, who missed the previous international window due to injury, returned as a substitute against Chile and is expected to start against Colombia, eager to add to his six goals in the campaign and retain his spot as joint-top scorer.
Colombia, by contrast, are in a precarious position. Nestor Lorenzo’s side are clinging to the sixth and final automatic qualification spot, just three points ahead of Venezuela. Their recent form has been worrying: winless in their last five qualifiers, with three losses and two draws, including a goalless stalemate at home against Peru last time out. Their only win in the last seven matches came against Argentina in September 2024, but since then, both performance and confidence have dipped. The return of Luis Diaz from suspension is a major boost, as the Liverpool winger is level with Messi atop the qualifying scoring charts, but Colombia’s attack has struggled for fluency and consistency.
Both teams are dealing with absences. Argentina will be without Enzo Fernandez, Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Otamendi, and Nico Gonzalez due to suspensions or injuries, while Alexis Mac Allister and Giovani Lo Celso are also doubts. Lautaro Martinez, although back in the squad, may not be fit to start. For Colombia, injuries to Juan Cabal, Luis Sinisterra, Jhon Cordoba, and Juan Quintero have forced tactical reshuffles, with Quintero’s creativity especially missed in midfield. Nevertheless, the visitors will rely on a core of experienced players and hope that the urgency of their qualification battle spurs a turnaround.
Key Players to Watch
Argentina:
- Lionel Messi: The captain remains the heartbeat of the team, even at 38, and is tied for the lead in qualifying goals. His vision, set-piece threat, and leadership are unmatched.
- Julian Alvarez: In red-hot form for both club and country, Alvarez’s movement and finishing make him a constant danger.
- Cristian Romero: The Tottenham defender anchors a backline that has conceded just 0.6 goals per game in the last ten matches.
Colombia:
- Luis Diaz: The Liverpool winger returns from suspension and is Colombia’s primary attacking outlet, tied with Messi for most goals in qualifying.
- James Rodriguez: The creative engine, leading the team in assists and chance creation, and often the architect of Colombia’s best moments.
- Jhon Duran: The young striker’s power and movement will be crucial, especially with Cordoba out injured.
Prediction
Argentina’s imperious home form, depth of talent, and the return of Messi as a starter make them clear favorites. Colombia’s recent struggles on the road and their lack of cutting edge suggest a tough evening in Buenos Aires, though the urgency of their qualification battle could see them raise their level. Expect a competitive match, but Argentina’s quality should prevail.
Predicted score: Argentina 2-1 Colombia
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Odds (Fractional) | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Argentina to Win | 4/5 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 12/5 | Bet Now |
| Colombia to Win | 7/2 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score (Yes) | 21/10 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 11/8 | Bet Now |
| Under 2.5 Goals | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Lionel Messi Anytime Scorer | 11/8 | Bet Now |
| Luis Diaz Anytime Scorer | 2/1 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score 2-1 | 8/1 | Bet Now |
Argentina’s home advantage and attacking firepower make them the smart pick, but Colombia’s desperation could see them get on the scoresheet. Expect a lively contest with plenty of star quality on display.
