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Argentina National Team Prepares for Clash with Chile in South American Qualifiers
Table of Contents
September 5, 2024
The Argentina national team held its last training session before their South American qualifying match against Chile. The match will take place on Thursday at 9 PM at Memorial Stadium, with Venezuelan Jesús Valenzuela as the referee. The game will be broadcasted on TyC Sports.
After training in Ezeiza, Technical Director Lionel Scaloni has not confirmed the squad or captain, leaving open the possibility of Nicolas Otamendi making the starting eleven.
In defense, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez will anchor the backline. Scaloni stated that “it will depend on the team that plays tomorrow,” suggesting that Otamendi may be involved due to the injury of Nicolas Tagliafico.
The right back position will still be filled by Nahuel Molina, who is expected to join the midfield during offensive plays.
This setup will likely see a defense comprised of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, and Lisandro Martinez. If Scaloni opts for a different formation, Lisandro could function as a center forward, with Marcos Acuña on the wing.
Alexis Mac Allister did not train on Tuesday due to muscle overload, but he participated in yesterday’s training session. Scaloni is likely to start him alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes. If Mac Allister cannot play, Enzo Fernandez will take his place.
With Messi and Di Maria absent from the attack, Scaloni must also reshape the Albiceleste’s offensive strategy. Lautaro Martinez and Julián Alvarez are expected to feature prominently, while the left wing position remains undecided.
A potential asset for Argentina is Nicholas Gonzalez, who could see increased playing time due to circumstances involving Lisandro Martinez’s role in defense. However, questions remain about his recent transfer from Fiorentina to Juventus.
Chile will be missing key players Eric Pulgar, Diego Valdes, and Bruno Batigiotto due to injuries, as well as Ben Brereton due to poor physical condition. Head coach Ricardo Gareca will field his best available squad, which includes Gabriel Arias, Matias Catalan, Paulo Dias, and Felipe Loyola.
Possible Formations
Argentina
Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Gonzalez; Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez. Coach: Lionel Scaloni.
Chile
Gabriel Arias; Mauricio Isla, Paulo Diaz, William Maripan, Eugenio Mena; Rodrigo Echeverria, Eric Thumb, Victor Davila, Carlos Palacios, Darius Osorio; Ben Berenton. Coach: Ricardo Gareca.
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Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Otamendi, while the midfield could include Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández, providing both defensive stability and creative support to the forwards.
In attack, Lionel Messi remains the focal point for Argentina, with Lautaro Martínez and Ángel Di María potentially lining up alongside him. The trio has shown great chemistry in recent matches, making them a potent threat against Chile's defense.
Chile’s national team is also preparing vigorously for this crucial qualifier. Head Coach Eduardo Berizzo has emphasized the need for a strong team effort and has called upon his players to rise to the occasion. Key player Alexis Sánchez, who has vast experience, will lead Chile's attack, supported by players such as Arturo Vidal and Claudio Bravo, who bring invaluable leadership and skill.
An expected lineup for Chile may feature Bravo in goal, with a defensive line including Mauricio Isla and Gary Medel, moving into a midfield anchored by Vidal and Charles Aránguiz. Up front, they will likely rely on Sánchez and Ben Brereton Díaz to capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The match promises to be a fierce contest between two sides with rich footballing histories. Argentina is looking to solidify its position at the top of the qualifying table, while Chile hopes to make a statement and secure precious points in the quest for World Cup qualification.
Fans can eagerly anticipate a thrilling encounter as these two South American giants clash on the field. Both teams will be looking to showcase their best talent and secure a vital win.
