Argentina will try to stay alive in the Qatar 2022 World Cup when they face Australia in the Round of 16. Read here to find out the important reasons why Lautaro Martinez won’t be starting at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium.
Although Argentina are one of the favorites to win the 2022 World Cup, they have not lifted the trophy since 1986. However, this young generation of players, led by veteran superstar Lionel Messi, took the pressure off and won the Copa 2021 title. America in Brazil and started the tournament in Qatar by winning Group C.
Argentina were stunned 2-1 by Saudi Arabia in the opening match, ending their amazing 36-game unbeaten run. However, the famous Albiceleste bounced back quickly with wins against Mexico (2:0) and Poland (2:0).
Now the two-time world champions (1978, 1986) are just four wins away from the title in Lionel Messi’s last chance to win the one trophy that has eluded him. Lautaro Martinez was reportedly one of the best players to help him, but the striker will not start in the round of 16 against Australia.
Why is Lautaro Martinez not playing in Argentina vs Australia?
Lautaro Martinez started in the first two games of Argentina in the Qatar 2022 World Cup: Saudi Arabia and Mexico. Then, in the last match against Poland, he was replaced by Julian Alvarez who scored an amazing goal and is living a great moment with Manchester City in the Premier League.
So, for this Round of 16 matchup against Australia, coach Lionel Scaloni repeats the formula. Julian Alvarez as the attacking partner for Lionel Messi. However, as it happened in the game with Poland, Lautaro Martinez is available to come from the bench in any situation.
