Argentina's Tagliafico to Miss World Cup Opener Due to Calf Injury
Argentina left-back Nicolás Tagliafico suffered a minor soleus muscle tear during a friendly against Honduras, ruling him out of the 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria on June 17. He may also miss the second group match against Austria. Defender Leonardo Balerdi is also out with a tear, replaced by Marcos Senesi. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is cleared to start. Facundo Medina is the likely replacement at left-back.
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Argentina Coach Scaloni Plans Three Big Changes for World Cup Round of 16 Against Egypt
According to TyC Sports and AS, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is preparing several adjustments to his starting lineup for the 2026 World Cup round of 16 match against Egypt. Recovered from injury, Nicolás Tagliafico is expected to reclaim a starting spot after his performance against Cape Verde, while Facundo Medina is uncertain due to physical issues. In midfield, Leandro Paredes could replace Thiago Almada, which would allow Alexis Mac Allister to move into a more offensive role. In attack, Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez are competing for a place alongside Lionel Messi as Scaloni seeks the best formula for the knockout stage. The match is scheduled for July 7, 2026.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertLautaro Martínez Chosen Ahead of Julián Álvarez for Argentina's World Cup Match Against Cape Verde
The article reports that Lautaro Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico are pushing to retain their starting spots in Argentina's lineup for their 2026 World Cup round of 32 match against Cape Verde in Miami. Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to field Lautaro Martínez alongside Lionel Messi and Thiago Almada in attack, while Cristian 'Cuti' Romero returns to central defense. The predicted starting eleven includes Emiliano Martínez in goal, a defensive line of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Nicolás Tagliafico, a midfield of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister, and a forward trio of Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Thiago Almada. The team trained behind closed doors in Kansas City before traveling to Miami. The article highlights the strategic choices as Argentina, already qualified as group winners, rotates players.
FútbolLautaro Martínez Chosen Over Julián Álvarez for Argentina's World Cup Starting XI
According to Mundo Deportivo, Lautaro Martínez and Nicolás Tagliafico are set to retain their starting positions for Argentina's Round of 32 match against Cape Verde on Friday in Miami during the 2026 World Cup. Coach Lionel Scaloni experimented with rotations in the previous match against Jordan, but the latest closed training sessions indicate a return to a strong lineup. Martínez will start alongside Lionel Messi and Thiago Almada in attack, replacing Julián Álvarez. In defense, Cristian 'Cuti' Romero is expected to return from injury, partnering Lisandro Martínez. The predicted starting XI includes Emiliano Martínez in goal, a back four of Nahuel Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, and Tagliafico, a midfield trio of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Alexis Mac Allister, and a forward line of Messi, Lautaro Martínez, and Almada. The team trained behind closed doors in Kansas City before traveling to Miami.
FútbolAtlético de Madrid Players Feature as Argentina Preps for Second World Cup Match
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, the Argentina national team, current world champions, prepares to face Austria in Dallas on June 22. Atlético de Madrid will be well represented in the squad, with up to six players called up by coach Lionel Scaloni. In their opening match against Algeria, only Thiago Almada started, but for the upcoming game, more Colchoneros could feature. Julián Álvarez, who has been recovering from physical issues, may start ahead of Lautaro Martínez. Nicolás González could replace Almada for defensive balance, while Nahuel Molina might return to the starting lineup. Juan Musso, Thiago Almada, and Giuliano Simeone are likely to remain on the bench. Scaloni faces a tactical decision between using Lautaro's finishing or Julián's pressing ability.
FútbolArgentina 2026 World Cup Live: Montiel Out Injured, Scaloni Mulls Changes Ahead of Austria Clash
As of June 20, 2026, Argentina's national football team continues its 2026 World Cup campaign. Defender Gonzalo Montiel has been ruled out of the upcoming match against Austria due to a minor right hamstring injury, with Nahuel Molina expected to replace him. Coach Lionel Scaloni is preparing tactical changes after the team's opening victory against Algeria, potentially including more minutes for defender Nicolas Tagliafico, who is recovering from injury. All 26 squad members trained together. Assistant coach Pablo Aimar commented that while the team is happy with its start (unlike the previous World Cup), one can never be 100% calm in a World Cup. The article is a live blog format with updates from AS Football.
Fútbol en AS.comNicolas Tagliafico Expected to Return for Argentina vs Austria Match
Nicolas Tagliafico, the 33-year-old Lyon left-back, is back in training after a minor left calf injury that caused him to miss Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria. He is expected to be available for Argentina's second match against Austria on Monday in Arlington, Texas. In his absence, Lionel Scaloni started Facundo Medina, who performed well and may retain his place, meaning Tagliafico might not immediately return to the starting lineup despite his recovery.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuESPN: Tagliafico Recovers Well, Expected to Play for Argentina Against Austria
According to ESPN reporter Diego Monroig, Argentine defender Nicolas Tagliafico has recovered very well from an injury and is expected to play in Argentina's upcoming match against Austria. Tagliafico missed Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria due to the injury, with Medina starting in his place. The news was reported by Hupu Soccer on June 18, citing a source on X (formerly Twitter). The article also includes user comments discussing Tagliafico's form and Medina's performance.
虎扑 - 足球Scaloni's Bold Left-Back Tactic Pays Off as Argentina Beat Algeria 3-0
In Argentina's opening match of the 2026 World Cup, they defeated Algeria 3-0. Coach Lionel Scaloni made a bold defensive adjustment: with starting left-back Nicolas Tagliafico injured, he deployed center-back Facundo Medina as an emergency left-back. Medina, primarily a center-back for Marseille, delivered a solid performance. Although Algeria did not heavily attack his flank, Medina defended steadily and joined the attack frequently. He had minor positional lapses, but partner Lisandro Martinez covered effectively. Medina's strong showing gives Argentina a reliable backup left-back option, allowing Scaloni to wait for Tagliafico's full recovery without rushing him back.
虎扑 - 足球Argentina's starting eleven for World Cup debut against Algeria confirmed
The Argentine National Team is set to begin its 2026 World Cup campaign in Kansas City, facing Algeria in Group J. Coach Lionel Scaloni has confirmed the starting lineup, which retains most of the core from the 2022 World Cup-winning squad. Notable changes include Facundo Medina in defense and Lautaro Martínez replacing Julián Álvarez (who has ankle discomfort) in attack. Goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez returns despite a fractured finger, having completed recent training without issues. The lineup features Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, and others. Algeria's coach Vladimir Petkovic has also announced his starting eleven, including Luca Zidane in goal. The match is scheduled to begin in one hour.
FútbolScaloni Holds Team Meeting; Martinez and Romero to Start, Fullbacks in Doubt for Argentina's World Cup Opener vs Algeria
Argentina's final training session before their 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria saw coach Lionel Scaloni hold an unusual collective team meeting, interpreted as a final rallying cry. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is fully recovered from a fractured finger and confirmed to start. However, defensive concerns persist: left-back Tagliafico is out with a thigh strain, leaving Facundo Medina or Lisandro Martinez as replacements. Right-backs Molina and Montiel are both suffering from muscle injuries and lack match rhythm. Center-back Cristian Romero has returned, with veteran Otamendi or Lisandro Martinez as his partner. Midfield is set with Enzo, De Paul, Mac Allister, and Thiago Almada. Up front, Messi is likely partnered by Lautaro Martinez, who is in excellent form after winning Serie A with Inter Milan, while Julian Alvarez is hampered by an ankle injury.
虎扑 - 足球Julián Alvarez Available for Argentina's World Cup Debut Against Algeria
Argentina's World Cup campaign begins with a match against Algeria in Kansas on June 17 (3:00 AM Spanish time). Head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Atlético Madrid striker Julián Alvarez is fully recovered from an ankle injury sustained in the Champions League semifinal in May and is available to play, possibly even start. Alvarez had been sidelined for over a month. The Argentina squad includes six players from Atlético Madrid, including Giuliano Simeone and Thiago Almada. Other Atlético players like Nahuel Molina and Nico González are also fit after injury doubts. Scaloni noted the difficulty of selecting the lineup due to the depth of talent. The match is highly anticipated by Atlético Madrid fans, especially given transfer interest in Alvarez from Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, and PSG.
FútbolScaloni Reassures on Messi and Alvarez Fitness Ahead of 2026 World Cup
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni held a press conference on June 15, 2026, to provide updates on key players Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez ahead of the team's 2026 World Cup opener against Algeria. Scaloni confirmed that Messi is in great shape and remains fundamental to the team, dismissing any concerns about his presence on the pitch. Regarding Julian Alvarez, Scaloni stated that the forward had an ankle problem but his recovery has paid off and he is now in top form. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is also reported to be doing well. The defending champions are relying on the balance and experience gained from their previous World Cup title as they prepare for their first match on June 17.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertArgentina vs Algeria: Emiliano Martínez Returns for Messi's Historic 200th Match
Argentina begins its World Cup title defense against Algeria in Kansas City, with Lionel Messi set to make history by playing his 200th international match and becoming the first player to participate in six World Cups. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez will start despite a fractured right ring finger sustained in the Europa League final, playing with a protected finger. The coaching staff has kept River Plate's Santiago Beltrán as a backup in case Martínez needs replacement. Left-back Nicolás Tagliafico is absent, with Facundo Medina or Lisandro Martínez expected to replace him. The probable lineup includes key players such as Cristian Romero, Rodrigo de Paul, Enzo Fernández, and Julián Álvarez alongside Messi.
RecordArgentina's Injured Players Arrive for World Cup Debut Against Algeria
Argentina's national football team, the defending World Cup champions, are preparing for their 2026 World Cup debut against Algeria in Kansas City. Coach Lionel Scaloni has managed to resolve most injury concerns that plagued the squad during the final preparation week. Seven key players, including Nicolás Tagliafico, Nicolás González, Leandro Paredes, Julián Álvarez, Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, and goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez, were initially doubtful. As of match day minus two, most have recovered or are expected to play. Tagliafico remains questionable with a calf injury, and Paredes is not match-fit for the starting eleven. Martínez, who had a fractured finger, trained normally and is expected to start. Defender Marcos Senesi was called up as a late replacement for the injured Leonardo Balerdi. Fans gathered near the team's training base in Kansas City to show support.
Fútbol2026 World Cup: Argentina's Possible Lineup Against Algeria with Messi and Lautaro, Without Alvarez
The article discusses the likely starting lineup for Argentina, the reigning world champions, ahead of their 2026 World Cup opening match against Algeria in Kansas City. Key points include: Lyon's Nicolas Tagliafico is injured, Julian Alvarez is expected to start on the bench due to ankle issues, and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is available after recovering from a finger fracture. Lionel Messi, aged 38, is expected to start his sixth World Cup after a convincing friendly against Iceland. Three uncertainties remain on defense and the left midfield flank. The article also lists a possible 4-4-2 formation featuring Martinez in goal, a defensive line of Molina or Montiel, Romero, Otamendi, and Li. Martinez or Medina, a midfield of De Paul, McAllister, E. Fernandez, and Simeone or Almada, and a forward duo of Lautaro and Messi.
Home Football - actualitésArgentina's Left Flank Hit by Injuries Ahead of World Cup Opener Against Algeria
With four days until Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria, coach Lionel Scaloni faces a personnel crisis on the left flank. Left-back Nicolas Tagliafico has been ruled out with a soleus muscle injury sustained in a friendly against Honduras. Winger Nico Gonzalez is also suffering from muscle fatigue after recently recovering from a tear, leaving his availability uncertain. Argentina has no natural left-back replacement in the squad; center-back Facundo Medina is the emergency option but lacks attacking prowess. On the left wing, Thiago Almada, a right-footed player, is expected to start. The coaching staff will assess injured players in the coming hours to finalize the lineup.
虎扑 - 足球2026 World Cup: Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico Likely to Miss Algeria Match Due to Calf Injury
Argentina national team full-back Nicolas Tagliafico suffered a minor calf lesion during a match against Honduras. Despite the injury, the Albiceleste staff have decided to keep him for the remainder of the 2026 World Cup. However, Argentine media reports indicate that head coach Lionel Scaloni is likely to rest him for Argentina's first tournament match against Algeria, scheduled for June 17 at 3:00 AM French time. The injury is a blow to the team's defensive lineup, but the decision to retain Tagliafico suggests optimism about his recovery for later stages of the competition.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertNicolas Tagliafico Expected to Miss Argentina's World Cup Opener Against Algeria
Nicolas Tagliafico, the 33-year-old Lyon left-back, is expected to miss Argentina's opening match of the 2026 World Cup against Algeria, scheduled for the night of June 16-17 at 3:00 AM. Tagliafico suffered a left calf injury during Argentina's preparatory match against Honduras on June 7, which ended 2-0. Medical tests revealed a minor lesion, and while his participation in the tournament is not yet in jeopardy, head coach Lionel Scaloni's staff plans to rest him for the opener and monitor his progress closely. This injury adds to Argentina's defensive concerns, as the reigning world champions have already lost Leonardo Balerdi to a right calf injury, ruling him out of the competition and prompting his replacement by Marcos Senesi of Tottenham. Tagliafico, a member of Argentina's victorious 2022 World Cup campaign, was expected to start as a first-choice player. Potential replacements for the Algeria match include Facundo Medina, Lisandro Martinez, or Valentin Barco.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuArgentina's Tagliafico to Miss World Cup Opener with Minor Soleus Injury
According to Argentine media TyC Sports, Argentina national team left-back Nicolás Tagliafico has been ruled out of the first World Cup group stage match against Algeria due to a minor tear in his left soleus muscle, sustained during a friendly against Honduras. The Lyon defender was substituted after 45 minutes and has since begun rehabilitation. The coaching staff aims for his return in the second group match against Austria on June 22, though this depends on recovery progress. The medical team expects a relatively quick recovery due to the minor nature of the injury. In his absence, Facundo Medina is likely to start at left-back against Algeria. Medina, primarily a center-back, has filled in at left-back in recent friendlies and is seen as a capable replacement, though less attacking than Tagliafico.
虎扑 - 足球Argentina's Tagliafico to Miss First Two World Cup Group Matches; Martinez Cleared for Training
According to ESPN Argentina and TyC Sports, Argentina left-back Nicolas Tagliafico will miss at least the first two matches of the World Cup group stage due to injury. Additionally, winger Nicolas Gonzalez is experiencing muscle overload and may miss the opening match. Positive news emerged as starting goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez had his hand cast removed and is expected to start against Algeria. Julian Alvarez will resume training and is gaining support as a starting option, though Lautaro Martinez holds a slight edge. Leandro Paredes is increasing training load and will be on the substitute list. Marcos Senesi has been called up to replace the injured Leonardo Balerdi, who suffered a soleus muscle tear. Senesi's addition provides a left-footed defensive option, allowing Facundo Medina to serve as backup left-back. Paredes' recovery has edged out Guido Rodriguez for a squad spot.
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