Lionel Scaloni has confirmed his starting lineup for Argentina's World Cup clash against Algeria, fielding what amounts to a near full-strength side built around Lionel Messi. The selection signals that Argentina are taking the fixture seriously, with Scaloni making limited room for rotation despite the demands of a tournament schedule.
The Starting Eleven in Full
Scaloni has gone with the following eleven from the off. Much like the varied demands coaches juggle across different sporting calendars - those following the armidale races today will appreciate how form and conditions shape selection decisions - Scaloni's choices here reflect both tactical conviction and squad fitness considerations heading into what is a significant test.
- Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez
- Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Medina
- Midfield: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Thiago Almada
- Attack: Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martínez
Emiliano Martínez starts between the sticks, as expected. The Aston Villa goalkeeper has been one of Argentina's most reliable performers in recent years and brings a commanding presence that goes beyond shot-stopping. The back four sees Montiel at right back, with Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez forming the central defensive partnership - a combination that blends Premier League physicality with tactical intelligence. Medina completes the defensive line at left back.
A Midfield Built on Balance and Quality
The three-man midfield of De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Mac Allister is arguably one of the most balanced in international football right now. De Paul provides the energy and pressing intensity that Argentina rely on to win second balls and transition quickly. Enzo Fernández, who has established himself as one of the more complete central midfielders of his generation, offers both defensive cover and forward drive. Mac Allister, the Brighton and then Liverpool man, brings composure and technical quality in tight spaces.
Thiago Almada's inclusion in a more advanced midfield role adds an element of unpredictability. The Atlanta United product - one of MLS's most creative exports - gives Argentina an option to combine fluidly ahead of the midfield block and link play with the two strikers.
Messi Leads the Attack Alongside Lautaro
The front two needs little introduction. Lionel Messi, the reigning World Cup winner and arguably the greatest player to have competed at this level, leads the line alongside Lautaro Martínez. Their partnership has become one of the most productive in international football, combining Messi's creative vision and direct running with Lautaro's movement, pressing, and clinical finishing inside the box.
Against Algeria, Argentina will be expected to control possession and create chances through that front two, with Almada and De Paul providing the wide and deep connections that can stretch the opposition's defensive shape. Scaloni's setup reflects his trust in this group - a core that has functioned cohesively since their Copa América triumph and through to World Cup glory. Algeria will need to be organised, disciplined, and clinical in transition to make this a genuinely competitive fixture.
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