Chile vs Argentina lineups revealed: Can La Roja keep World Cup hopes alive
Chile hosts Argentina in a 2026 World Cup qualifier with Chile needing a win to stay in contention while Argentina, already qualified, fields a youthful side without several stars.
Key points
- Chile sits at the bottom of the CONMEBOL table, five points behind the playoff spot.
- Argentina leads the qualifiers with 31 points and has rested Messi, Martínez and other regulars.
- Both coaches announced lineups, with Chile fielding veterans like Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal.
- Argentina's squad features many young players as head coach Lionel Scaloni gives them experience.
The stakes couldn’t be higher as Chile hosts Argentina in Santiago for a crucial 2026 CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier. With only four matchdays remaining, Chile sits at the bottom of the standings with points, five behind the playoff spot currently held by Venezuela. Anything less than a win could spell the end of their World Cup hopes.
Argentina, already qualified and leading the table with 31 points, arrives without several key players. Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez start on the bench, while Alexis Mac Allister, Giovani Lo Celso, Enzo Fernández, Nicolás Otamendi, Leandro Paredes, and Nicolás González are all absent due to injury or suspension. Head coach Lionel Scaloni has opted to field a younger lineup, giving fresh faces a chance to impress.
Confirmed Lineups:.
Chile (Coach: Ricardo Gareca):.
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Brayan Cortés.
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Felipe Loyola.
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Guillermo Maripán.
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Francisco Sierralta.
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Gabriel Suazo.
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Arturo Vidal.
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Rodrigo Echeverría.
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Vicente Pizarro.
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Darío Osorio.
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Alexis Sánchez.
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Lucas Cepeda.
Argentina (Coach: Lionel Scaloni):.
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Emiliano Martínez.
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Nahuel Molina.
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Cristian Romero.
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Leonardo Balerdi.
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Nicolás Tagliafico.
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Giuliano Simeone.
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Rodrigo De Paul.
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Exequiel Palacios.
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Tiago Almada.
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Nicolás Paz.
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Julián Álvarez.
With Chile’s Paulo Díaz missing due to injury and Argentina’s lineup full of young talent, tonight’s match promises high drama. For Chile, led by veterans Alexis Sánchez and Arturo Vidal, it’s a must-win to keep their qualification hopes alive. For Argentina, it’s a chance to refine their squad ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Your questions, answered
What does Chile need to do to stay in the World Cup race?
Chile must win the match against Argentina, as a loss could end their qualification hopes with only four matchdays left.
Why is Argentina not using its regular starters?
Argentina is already qualified and chose to rest several key players, opting for a younger lineup to gain experience.
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