By World champions Argentina face a stern test against an ambitious Venezuela side in a crucial CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier at the Estadio Monumental on Thursday. The match pits the group leaders against a Venezuelan team making an unexpected push for their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Argentina, under coach Lionel Scaloni, sits atop the CONMEBOL standings with 18 points from eight matches. A victory would put them on the brink of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, despite recent losses to Colombia and Uruguay. The Albiceleste’s formidable record, conceding just seven goals in their last 19 qualifiers, underscores their dominance in South American football.
The big news for Argentina is the return of Lionel Messi, set to feature for the first time since their Copa America triumph. However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will miss both October fixtures due to suspension, while Paulo Dybala, Nicolas Gonzalez, and Alejandro Garnacho have withdrawn due to injuries.
Venezuela, led by Argentine coach Fernando Batista, finds itself in unfamiliar territory, currently occupying the final automatic qualifying spot with 10 points. The hosts have proven resilient at home, remaining unbeaten in four qualifiers, but face their toughest challenge yet against Argentina.
La Vinotinto’s success has been built on a solid defense, exemplified by their recent 0-0 draw with Uruguay. However, their attack has struggled, scoring just once in their last four qualifiers. Veteran striker Salomon Rondon, with two goals in qualifying and 20 in 33 games for Mexican side Pachuca this year, will be crucial to their offensive efforts.
Venezuela will be without defender Teo Quintero, denying him an international debut, while Jhon Chancellor remains sidelined. These absences may see Batista field the same back four that held Uruguay last month.
Despite Venezuela’s home advantage, Argentina’s quality and experience make them clear favorites. The visitors have won three of their four away games in qualifying and boast a strong head-to-head record against Venezuela, going unbeaten in their last seven competitive meetings.
As South American qualifying approaches its halfway point, this match could prove pivotal for both teams. Argentina aims to cement their position atop the group, while Venezuela seeks to maintain their surprising push for a historic World Cup qualification.
