Scaloni Keeps Argentina’s Line-Up Under Wraps Ahead of World Cup

Argentina are set to begin their FIFA World Cup campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on Monday, with just one day remaining before Lionel Messi and his teammates take the field for their opening match of the tournament.

As anticipation builds among supporters, speculation continues over Argentina’s preferred formation and starting XI. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has so far offered no clear indication regarding his final plans, particularly concerning the defensive setup.

According to Argentine media outlet TyC Sports, Scaloni has been experimenting with multiple tactical systems during training sessions. At times he has deployed a traditional four-man backline, while on other occasions he has tested a three-centre-back formation supported by attacking wing-backs.

During Saturday’s training session, Argentina initially lined up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi and Lisandro Martínez forming the defence. Later in the session, Facundo Medina was introduced at left-back, replacing Romero in a tactical reshuffle.

TyC Sports reports that Argentina are more likely to use the 4-4-2 system against Algeria, taking into account their opponents’ style of play. However, the identities of the players occupying specific positions remain undecided.

The central defensive partnership is reportedly still under consideration, with three players competing for two spots. There is also the possibility that all three could start, with Lisandro Martínez shifting to left-back—a position he has occupied successfully in the past.

Scaloni has also tested a 3-5-2 formation in training. Under that system, Giuliano Simeone and Nicolás González would operate as attacking wing-backs on the right and left respectively. Romero would play as the right-sided centre-back, Otamendi as the sweeper and Martínez as the left-sided centre-back.

While Argentina are not expected to use that formation against Algeria, it remains a tactical option that could be employed in later matches during the tournament.

Despite the uncertainty in defence, Argentina’s midfield and attacking units appear much more settled. The midfield trio of Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Rodrigo De Paul are expected to start together and provide the foundation for the team's play.

In attack, captain Lionel Messi is likely to partner Lautaro Martínez. Julián Álvarez missed Argentina’s last two friendly matches because of a ligament injury in his left ankle, leaving Martínez as the frontrunner to start alongside Messi.

The remaining attacking position is being contested by Giuliano Simeone and Thiago Almada. Based on his regular involvement with the national team over the past year, Almada appears to have the edge in the race for a starting berth.

For now, however, Scaloni’s final tactical blueprint remains a closely guarded secret. As the World Cup-winning coach prepares for another major tournament challenge, only he knows which formation and personnel he will trust when Argentina begin their quest for glory against Algeria.

MMR