Argentina and Zambia go head-to-head in an international friendly this week in what will be the first ever meeting between the two nations.
The Albiceleste are busy preparing to defend their World Cup crown after triumphing in Qatar just over three years ago. Zambia, who are 91st in the world rankings, failed to qualify for this summer’s tournament in North America.
Argentina vs Zambia – Match preview and team news
- Date: Wednesday, 1st April
- Kick-off: 12:15am BST
- Venue: Estadio Armando Jose Alberto, Buenos Aires
Argentina team news
Gonzalo Montiel and Leonardo Balerdi were withdrawn from the squad due to injury issues before the game against Mauritania, and now Joaquin Panichelli has been ruled out long-term after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament tear.
Lionel Scaloni confirmed that Lionel Messi, who was only used as a substitute last time out, will start against Zambia.
Argentina is likely to start with its established core team. “Most of the players we know well will be playing. This will be the final test,” Scaloni said.
“Later, we’ll make some changes to take a look at some of the younger guys, but the idea is to field our most familiar lineup,” he said.
Scaloni already submitted the preliminary 55-man squad for the World Cup and will select the final squad based on performances.
Zambia team news
The Copper Bullets face a major fitness concern regarding midfielder Prince Mumba, who is a serious doubt for the match after suffering a facial injury during a training collision in Buenos Aires on 30 March.
Despite this setback, the team remains confident under the leadership of Captain Fashion Sakala. The Al Fayha forward is expected to join the attack while Patson Daka will lead the line.
Sakala publicly stated that his side is ready to compete with the world champions. The squad remains largely intact otherwise, focusing on a defensive structure designed to frustrate Argentina’s frontline.
Form
Argentina: LWWWW
Argentina enter this match on a four-game winning streak. Their latest result was a narrow 2-1 victory over Mauritania on 28 March, where goals from Enzo Fernández and Nico Paz secured the win despite a nervy performance. Coach Scaloni is using this form to fine-tune tactics, notably deciding to start Lionel Messi today to improve offensive rhythm.
Zambia: LDDLD
Zambia have struggled recently, failing to score in three of its last four internationals. Their most recent outing was a 0-0 draw against Malawi on 28 March in Botswana. This lack of cutting edge, combined with conceding 2+ goals in each of their last four friendlies.
Predicted lineups
Argentina: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Senesi, Tagliafico; Simeone, Mac Allister, De Paul, Barco; Messi, Alvarez
Zambia: Mwanza; Chiboni, Chilimina, Chanda, Sinkala; Chisala, Chaiwa; Mulambia, Daka, Kangwanda; Sakala
How to watch Argentina vs Zambia?
UK fans can check their local operators for broadcasting details for this match.
Read – Chelsea midfielder Fernandez fuels Real Madrid transfer talk
See Also – The five favourites to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle