World Cup predicted starting lineups
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- Mexico City hosts the opening match of the FIFA World Cup on June 11, with co‑hosts Mexico and South Africa playing the inaugural game.
- Argentina's squad includes Lionel Messi, who will be playing his sixth World Cup, a record for any player.
- Argentina's projected bench features two goalkeepers (Juan Musso, Geronimo Rulli), four defenders (Leonardo Balerdi, Nicolas Otamendi, Facundo Medina, Gonzalo Montiel), six midfielders (Valentin Barco, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Nico Gonzalez, Thiago Almada, Nico Paz), and two forwards (Lautaro Martinez, Jose Lopez).
- Argentina's weaknesses include limited depth at full back, recurring defender injuries, and heavy reliance on strikers Álvarez and Martínez.
- Cape Verde and three other nations—Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan—will make their World Cup debut in 2026.
Why it matters: National teams and fans gain concrete lineup insights before the June 11 kickoff, shaping tactical prep and boosting ticket and merchandise demand as the tournament draws near.
