The November international break has a huge game on its hands. Argentina and Uruguay, two age-old football rivals, will face off in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Such is their rivalry between the teams and even the fans that the match is known as the Clásico Río de la Plata. It will be held at Boca Juniors’ famous stadium “La Bombonera” instead of River Plate’s usual Estadio Monumental.
Argentina, current World Cup champions, lead the standings with a perfect record of 4 wins. They have 12 points. Uruguay is second with 7 points, tied with Brazil and Venezuela but with more goals scored.
This game is a big deal and will kick off matchday 5 in the CONMEBOL qualifiers. Additionally, the move to “La Bombonera” adds more excitement to this historic rivalry.
Argentina team news:
Inter Miami CF standout Lionel Messi is set for a crucial doubleheader under coach Lionel Scaloni. The highlight is the visit to Brazil on November 21. With three goals in three games in September, Messi has scored a record 31 goals in Conmebol qualifying.
Veterans Di María and Dybala are back after missing last window through injury. Argentina’s squad includes Thiago Almada, who was chosen by U23 coach Javier Mascherano to prepare for the Olympics.
Uruguay team News
Uruguay boss Marcelo Bielsa springs a surprise call-up for Orlando City SC’s Facundo Torres and LAFC’s Cristiano Olivera. Notably, Luis Suárez, Uruguay’s top goalscorer, returns in great form from Grêmio, hinting at a potential move to Miami for the 2024 MLS season, where he will be reunited with Messi and former FC Barcelona teammates.
Argentina Predicted lineup (4-3-3)
Martinez; Montiel, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Messi, Alvarez, Gonzalez
Uruguay Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Rochet; Nández, Araujo, Cacares, Olivera; Valverde, Ugarte; Pellistri, De La Cruz, Araujo; Nunez