Bolivia vs Argentina: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Lionel Messi scored in the first FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier

As the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers unfold, the football world's attention is drawn to a captivating clash between Argentina and Bolivia. These two South American teams are set to face off, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Argentina, the reigning world champions, will be hoping to maintain their momentum from their previous victory over Ecuador. On the other hand, Bolivia must regroup after a heavy defeat to Brazil.

For both teams, these early qualifiers are pivotal in their journey towards the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. While Argentina is riding high after securing their third World Cup trophy in December, Bolivia is yearning for a chance to make their first World Cup finals appearance since 1994. However, their quest has been made challenging by a daunting fixture list, which has pitted them against football powerhouses Brazil and Argentina right at the beginning of their campaign.

Bolivia's journey to Qatar has been filled with obstacles, and their recent loss to Brazil has only added to their challenges. Having lost their last five qualifiers, Bolivia enters the upcoming fixture as massive underdogs. Nonetheless, football is full of surprises, and the Bolivian team will be eager to prove their mettle against the world champions.

Argentina's motivation and determination seem undiminished despite their recent World Cup triumph in Qatar. Since claiming the ultimate prize, known as the golden touch, La Albiceleste has maintained a stellar record with five consecutive victories, outscoring their opponents by a staggering 14-0. Their latest win came against Ecuador in Buenos Aires, where Lionel Messi, the maestro himself, produced a moment of magic.

Kick-Off:

Wednesday, September 13 2023, 01:45 AM (IST) at Estadio Hernando Siles in La Paz, Bolivia.

Form

Argentina form all competitions: W W W W W W

Bolivia form all competitions: L W L D L L

Players to watch

Marcelo Moreno (Bolivia)

This week marks the beginning of the World Cup qualifying for South American nations. A prominent player in the league is the Bolivian attacker, Marcelo Moreno. On September 8, he makes his national team debut with Bolivia against Brazil in Belém do Pará's Mangueiro Stadium.

The player, whose father is Brazilian and who has previously played for Brazilian clubs including Cruzeiro, Flamengo, and Grêmio, was born in Bolivia but has Brazilian citizenship. The athlete will reach a milestone with this Friday's game in addition to everything else that is personal. Ronald Raldes will be left behind by the top scorer, who will separate himself as the player with the most games played for the Bolivian National Team (103 games).

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina)

The starting lineup for Argentina's 1-0 victory against Ecuador on Thursday included Inter captain Martinez. The 26-year-old continues to be an Albiceleste starter on a consistent basis. This is despite the fact that the Inter striker missed out on most of the World Cup in Qatar's starting eleven.

In games against Saudi Arabia and Mexico during the group stage, Martinez had started. But Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made changes after Martinez's underwhelming efforts in those games.

Match facts for Bolivia vs Argentina

• Lionel Messi, Argentina's captain, requested a substitution during their match against Ecuador due to an injury concern.
• Following the match, Messi underwent a series of medical tests to assess the extent of his injury.
• The medical tests took place at a clinic in Buenos Aires and were conducted as a precautionary measure.

Injury and team news for Bolivia vs Argentina

Bolivia: After being introduced in the second half against Brazil, Luciano Ursino could be brought into the Bolivian midfield for Tuesday's encounter. Despite scoring Bolivia's only goal in the last match, Victor Abrego may have to settle for a place among the substitutes. Experienced striker Marcelo Moreno is expected to retain his starting position. Goalkeeper Guillermo Viscarra could have his work cut out, but he will be hoping for protection from the back five of Diego Medina, Jairo Quinteros, Adrian Jusino, Marcelo Suarez, and Roberto Fernandez.

Argentina: Argentina's manager, Lionel Scaloni, faces some key decisions as well. Lionel Messi, who picked up a knock in the narrow win over Ecuador, may start on the bench, offering a chance for other attacking talents to shine. Lisandro Martinez is unlikely to be risked due to a foot problem sustained in Manchester United's recent match against Arsenal. There were concerns over the fitness of Cristian Romero, but the Tottenham Hotspur defender is expected to be fit and partner Nicolas Otamendi in central defence.

Head-to-Head

When looking at the historical encounters between these two teams, Argentina has a clear edge. They have won seven of their previous eight encounters against Bolivia, including their most recent meeting in September 2021. In that match, Argentina secured a comfortable 3-0 victory, largely thanks to a Messi hat-trick. This history tips the scales in Argentina's favour as they prepare to face Bolivia once again.

Matches: 14

Bolivia: 2

Argentina: 9

Draw: 3

Predicted Lineup for Bolivia vs Argentina

Bolivia: Viscarra; Medina, Quinteros, Jusino, Suarez, Fernandez; Bejarano, Villamil, Ursino, Arrascaita; Moreno

Argentina: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Di Maria, Gonzalez, La. Martinez

Match Prediction for Bolivia vs Argentina

For Bolivia, it's a test of character and determination. Despite the odds stacked against them, they have the opportunity to prove that they can compete with the best in South America. Marcelo Moreno, their experienced striker, will play a pivotal role in leading their attack.

Argentina's recent form and their historical dominance over Bolivia make them the favourites on paper. With home advantage in La Paz, they will aim to upset the odds and secure a memorable victory. The possible absence of Lionel Messi from the starting lineup adds an element of uncertainty for Argentina, but their squad boasts talented players who can step up in his absence. Names like Angel Di Maria and Giovanni Gonzalez will be looked upon to provide the spark in attack.

The score will be Bolivia 0-3 Argentina

Telecast

India: DAZN app

UK: Viaplay Sports 2

USA: fuboTV

Nigeria: No Telecast