Argentina begin new chapter against Bolivia ahead of Messi’s final bow

Updated : 30 September 2026, 11:01

Agencies

PHOTO: AFP

Argentina begin an emotional international break on Thursday [6am, Bangladesh Time] when they face CONMEBOL rivals Bolivia at the Cordoba’s Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes, their first match since suffering a dramatic extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

The encounter carries added significance as Argentina prepares for life without Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old captain, who almost single-handedly inspired the reigning champions during their World Cup campaign, will make his final appearance for the national team on Tuesday, October 6, against Benin at the Estadio Monumental.

Messi’s absence against Bolivia therefore marks the beginning of a new chapter for Lionel Scaloni’s side.

Scaloni, the architect of Argentina’s success over the past decade, remains in charge and is open to negotiating a new contract, with his current deal expiring at the end of the year.

His tenure has transformed a team that had struggled for years to overcome major obstacles into one of international football’s most consistent sides.

Argentina had won 14 consecutive matches before Spain ended their World Cup title defence. Ferran Torres scored in extra time after Argentina was reduced to 10 men, ending the Albiceleste’s hopes at MetLife Stadium. The post-match conduct of some Argentine players also attracted widespread criticism and led to lengthy suspensions for Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina.

Now, Scaloni must demonstrate that Argentina can remain competitive without depending on its legendary captain.

According to sources, only one major selection decision remains. Nicolas Paz is expected to link Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez in attack, while Valentin Barco and Matias Soule are competing for a place in the advanced midfield role. Exequiel Palacios is expected to replace Enzo Fernandez, alongside Alexis Mac Allister.

At the back, Agustin Giay and Facundo Medina could start at full-back, although Medina and Roman Vega are competing for the left-back position. Emiliano Martinez, Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez are also expected to feature.

Bolivia arrive in Cordoba in poor form. After losing 1-2 to Iraq in the intercontinental World Cup play-off at the end of March, they suffered three straight defeats against Scotland, Algeria and Paraguay. Bolivia failed to score in those three matches while conceding 10 goals.

Coach Oscar Villegas has yet to reveal his starting XI, but his team faces a formidable challenge. Argentina are ranked 75 places above Bolivia in the FIFA rankings and have won nine of their last 10 meetings, keeping clean sheets in the past three encounters.

For Argentina, this is an opportunity to restart after the disappointment of the World Cup final and begin building a future without Messi. For Bolivia, the task is simpler but difficult: withstand Argentina’s pressure, rediscover their attacking threat and end a disappointing run of results.

A possible Argentina XI: Emiliano Martinez; Agustin Giay, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Facundo Medina or Roman Vega; Nicolas Paz, Exequiel Palacios, Alexis Mac Allister, Matias Soule or Valentin Barco; Julia Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez.