Argentina vs Bolivia: 2026 World Cup Qualifiers | Match Preview, Key Facts, Lineup and Injury Update

 Argentina hosts Bolivia in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Can Messi and Co. return to winning ways? Full match preview, injury news, and prediction.

As champions of both South America and the world, Argentina will host Bolivia in the next round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Although there has been a slight dip, Lionel Scaloni’s men are still comfortably on top of the standings with 19 points from nine matches played. 

In fact, their most recent 1-1 draw away to Venezuela caused them to drop two points, and yet, they are ready to recover and fight stiff opposition from the Bolivian team.

Bolivia, on the hand, undertakes the task of qualifying for their first World Cup since 1994. They have 12 points from 9 games and are in the 6th position of the group but full of confidence after beating Colombia narrowly 1-0. This match equally looks interesting because both teams are in search of the three points.

Kick-Off and Venue Details:

• Date and Time:
  • India: Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at 5:30 AM IST
  • UK: Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at 12:00 AM GMT
• Venue: Estadio Mâs Monumental, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Current Form:

• Argentina (Last 5 Matches): D-L-W-W-W
• Bolivia (Last 5 Matches): W-W-W-L-L

Argentina is arriving to this game in a bit of a mixed form, having dropped two points into the Venezuelan match and having suffered from a lot of terrible pitch conditions. 

La Albiceleste is still strong as ever generally but they would also want to show off their superiority once again within the confines of their home ground. Messi, who came back from injury in their last game, will be very important for Argentina as they go in pursuit of victory once again.

Bolivia is currently on a three-match winning-streak, which also includes an off this world 1-0 win over Colombia when the team was reduced to 10 men. Miguel Terceros has been one of the welcomed players and his form is important for Bolivia as they try to pose as a threat to the current World Champions. Recently, they have been doing well enough to even qualify for the World Cup, but playing against Argentina will be a different case altogether.

Key Players to Watch:

Lionel Messi (Argentina):

Having skipped the international break in September, Messi made his comeback against Venezuela; however, he was unable to shine owing to unfriendly weather. Now returning to play in front of home fans, Messi will be looking forward to scoring and helping his side win the match. Even at the age of 37, there is still no one else like him in the football arena, which is why everyone else is expecting to see how well he will help Argentina win once again. 

Miguel Terceros (Bolivia): 

Miguel Terceros is only 20 years old and is seen as the future of Bolivian football. He helped his team defeat Colombia 1-0 and has scored three goals in the ongoing World Cup qualifying round of matches. The young striker will be the most dangerous player for Bolivia and if he’s able to get into space, he could prove to be troublesome for the Argentinian back line.

Injury and Team News:

Argentina:
La Albiceleste have a fully fit squad available for the upcoming game. Lionel Scaloni will be pleased to have all his key players ready, including Messi, De Paul, and Mac Allister, for this important fixture.

Bolivia:
Bolivia will be without midfielder Héctor Cuéllar, who is suspended following a red card in their win over Colombia. His absence could weaken Bolivia’s midfield, making it harder for them to maintain possession against Argentina’s more experienced side.

Head-to-Head Record:

• Total Matches Played: 16
• Argentina Wins: 11
• Bolivia Wins: 2
• Draws: 3

Argentina has historically dominated this fixture, winning 11 of their 16 meetings with Bolivia. Their last encounter saw Argentina comfortably secure a 3-0 victory, and with the game being played in Buenos Aires, the home team will be heavily favored to come out on top once again.

Predicted Lineups:

Argentina (4-4-2):
Rulli (GK); Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, Fernandez, De Paul, Lo Celso; Alvarez, Messi

Bolivia (4-3-3):
Viscarra (GK); Sagredo, Suarez, Haquin, Medina; Vaca, Villamíl, Matheus; Chura, Algarañaz, Terceros

Argentina is expected to line up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Messi partnering with Julian Alvarez upfront. Their midfield will likely be marshaled by the industrious duo of De Paul and Fernandez. Bolivia, on the other hand, may stick with a 4-3-3 setup, with Terceros leading their attack.

Match Prediction:

Despite Bolivia’s recent form and confidence-boosting win against Colombia, Argentina’s strength, particularly at home, is undeniable. La Albiceleste have more firepower, experience, and depth than their opponents, and with Messi back in the lineup, they are clear favorites to secure three points.

Prediction: Argentina 3-0 Bolivia

Where to Watch Argentina vs Bolivia:

• India: FanCode
• UK: Premier Sports Player, Premier Sports 1
• USA: ViX, Telemundo Deportes En Vivo