Is Lionel Messi playing? Argentina vs Egypt confirmed players for 2026 World Cup match

Although they struggled to beat Cape Verde, In Argentina they managed to get their place in Round 16, where they will know face Egypt today. With one of the most competitive lines in the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Scaloni’s team is under pressure to win, while Hossam Hassan’s team continues to build its history in the tournament. Because of this, The fans took a close look at Lionel Messi’s condition in this game.

Lionel Messi will start for Argentina, as he has no suspension or recent injury. Head coach Lionel Scaloni continues to rely on him as the mainstay of the team, as he has scored seven goals and is competing with Erling Haaland, Harry Kane, and Kylian Mbappé to be the tournament’s top scorer. Because of this, he can come determined to score a goal and once again lead his team to victory.

Along with Messi, Argentina will start Julián Álvarez as their striker, looking to capitalize on his goalscoring potential. Unlike the previous game, Leandro Paredes will start in midfield, partnering Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, and Rodrigo De Paul. With this setup, Lionel Scaloni will look to control Egypt’s attack and dominate possession. However, they need a clinic before the vaccine.

Egypt will stick to their tactical approach, building their game around Mohamed Salah as a midfielder. They may strengthen their defensive set-up to reduce the impact of Lionel Messi’s side. Additionally, they need to be clinical in the counter attack, they have done a lot with Emam Ashour and Mostafa Zico on the wings. However, all eyes will be on Salahas he is expected to be the one who makes the difference.

Rodrigo De Paul #7, Cristian Romero #13 and Nicolas Otamendi #19 of Argentina applaud the fans.

Argentina have confirmed the match against Egypt

Argentina has shown to be one of the most consistent teams in the 2026 World Cup, as they are able to force their opponents, but also the way to practice. Head coach Lionel Scaloni will make a few changes to his starting line-upbrings Leandro Paredes, Nicolás Tagliafico, and Julián Álvarez. However, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi, as he has decided in front of the goals.

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How to watch Argentina vs Egypt in USA: 2026 World Cup, Live Stream, TV & Preview

With this in mind, Argentina will line up as follows: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister; Lionel Messi, Julián Álvarez.

Egypt have confirmed the match against Argentina

Although they struggled in their previous game, Egypt has managed to remain highly competitive then they reach the Round of 16. Coach Hossam Hassan will not make many changes to the starting teamsticking to his cunning ways. Although Mohamed Salah is a big star in this team, Mostafa Zico and Emam Ashour are expected to be the ones who separate the wings, and create space to defend the team.

Given this, Egypt will play as follows: Mostafa Shobeir Oufa; Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rami Rabia, Karim Hafez; Emam Ashour, Hamdy Fathy, Marwan Ateya, Mostafa Zico; Mohamed Salah, Haissem Hassam.

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