
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers are heating up, and on November 15, 2024, Paraguay will host Argentina at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción, Paraguay. This clash is vital for both teams, with Argentina aiming to continue their unbeaten run after winning the 2022 World Cup, while Paraguay hopes to secure a crucial win at home to stay competitive in the CONMEBOL standings.
Here’s everything you need to know about this exciting matchup, including team news, predictions, and the lineups.
Match Overview
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CONMEBOL)
- Date: November 15, 2024
- Time: 20:00 local time (Asunción) / 18:00 Argentina Time
- Venue: Estadio Defensores del Chaco, Asunción, Paraguay
Team News
Paraguay
Paraguay comes into this match after a mixed start to their qualifying campaign. Currently, they find themselves in the middle of the pack, but a strong performance against the World Cup champions could give them a significant boost. Paraguay will be hoping to build on their home advantage and produce a result to help push them up the qualification table.
- Key Player: Miguel Almirón
The Newcastle United star will be the key player for Paraguay, providing pace, dribbling ability, and creativity in attack. He’ll be crucial in breaking through Argentina’s defense and creating chances on the counterattack. - Injury Updates:
- Carlos González (forward) is recovering from a muscle injury, and his availability is uncertain.
- Blas Riveros (left-back) has been nursing a knee issue, but he is expected to be fit for this match.
- Andrés Cubas (midfielder) has been struggling with an ankle injury but is likely to feature in the starting XI.
Argentina
Argentina, the World Cup 2022 champions, continue their journey in the qualifiers under the leadership of Lionel Messi. They will look to continue their dominance and secure another three points to stay near the top of the qualification table. Argentina boasts one of the most talented squads in the world, and despite being away from home, they will be favorites to come away with the win.
- Key Player: Lionel Messi
Messi remains the most crucial player for Argentina, contributing with goals, assists, and overall creative brilliance. His ability to unlock defenses and create chances is unmatched, and he will be the focal point of Argentina’s attack. - Injury Updates:
- Paulo Dybala (forward) is ruled out with a muscle injury.
- Lautaro Martínez (striker) has been dealing with a minor knock but is expected to be fit for the game.
- Emiliano Buendía (midfielder) has been sidelined, leaving a gap in Argentina’s attacking options.
Expected Lineups
Paraguay (4-4-2 Formation):
- Goalkeeper: Roberto Fernández
- Right-back: Alan Rodríguez
- Center-back: Fabián Balbuena
- Center-back: Junior Alonso
- Left-back: Blas Riveros
- Midfield: Andrés Cubas
- Midfield: Gastón Giménez
- Midfield: Miguel Almirón
- Midfield: Richard Sánchez
- Striker: Adam Bareiro
- Striker: Derlis González
- Tactics: Paraguay will likely set up defensively, with a solid backline and a midfield focused on disrupting Argentina’s rhythm. On the counter, Almirón’s pace and vision will be key in creating chances for Bareiro and González.
Argentina (4-3-3 Formation):
- Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez
- Right-back: Nahuel Molina
- Center-back: Cristian Romero
- Center-back: Nicolás Otamendi
- Left-back: Marcos Acuña
- Midfield: Rodrigo De Paul
- Midfield: Enzo Fernández
- Midfield: Leandro Paredes
- Right-wing: Ángel Di María
- Striker: Julián Álvarez
- Left-wing: Lionel Messi (Captain)
- Tactics: Argentina will look to dominate possession, with Messi orchestrating attacks from the midfield. The attacking trio of Messi, Álvarez, and Di María will aim to break down Paraguay’s defense, while Argentina’s defense will need to stay alert to counter any threats from Almirón and Paraguay’s forwards.
Match Prediction
Argentina is the clear favorite going into this match. They are the reigning World Cup champions and have one of the most talented squads in international football. With players like Messi, Álvarez, and Di María, they will likely dominate possession and create numerous chances to break down Paraguay’s defense.
Paraguay will rely heavily on Almirón to create opportunities on the counterattack, as they will most likely play a more defensive game, hoping to exploit any mistakes from Argentina.
Prediction: Argentina 2-0 Paraguay
- Reasoning: While Paraguay will make it difficult for Argentina, especially with the passionate home support, Argentina’s attacking quality and Messi’s brilliance should see them through. The defending champions are well-equipped to secure all three points, even in hostile territory.
Key Matchups to Watch:
- Messi vs. Paraguay’s Defense
Messi’s playmaking ability will be critical for Argentina in breaking down Paraguay’s defense. Paraguay’s defenders, including Balbuena and Alonso, will need to be at their best to contain the Argentine star. - Almirón vs. Argentina’s Fullbacks
Miguel Almirón will be a key player for Paraguay on the counter. Argentina’s Molina and Acuña will have to keep an eye on Almirón’s speed and creativity. - Argentina’s Midfield Control
With players like De Paul, Fernández, and Paredes, Argentina’s midfield will dominate possession. Paraguay must find a way to disrupt their rhythm and prevent Argentina from dictating the pace of the game.
Where to Watch the Match
- United States: Telemundo, Peacock TV, FuboTV
- Argentina: TyC Sports, TyC Sports Play
- Paraguay: Tigo Sports
- United Kingdom: Sky Sports, FreeSports
- Australia: Optus Sport
- Latin America: ESPN, Star+