Argentina and Uruguay are preparing for a crucial World Cup Qualifying match in Montevideo on March 21, 2025, as the tensions rise between these two South American football powerhouses. As they clash at Estadio Centenario, Argentina aims to solidify its position atop the CONMEBOL standings while Uruguay seeks to close the gap.
The current standings are significant, with Argentina leading the pack with 25 points after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Peru in their last outing, while Uruguay follows in second with 20 points after a hard-fought draw against Brazil. The backdrop of this match promises to be as competitive as ever, given the commanding history and rivalry between the two sides.
However, Argentina will face a considerable challenge as they will be missing their star player, Lionel Messi. The 2022 World Cup winner sustained a minor adductor injury during Inter Miami's recent 2-1 victory over Atlanta United, prompting Lionel Scaloni to make adjustments in his squad. This absence is compounded by the injuries to several other key players, including Paulo Dybala, Giovani Lo Celso, and Gonzalo Montiel, along with Lautaro Martinez's withdrawal due to a hamstring issue.
Despite Messi's absence, Argentina has shown they can rely on a talented roster. With Julian Alvarez leading the charge, they've overcome challenges before, and the team possesses depth and skill in its midfield. Fans will look to see how the likes of Nico Paz and other young talents step up in this crucial matchup.
In contrast, Uruguay, managed by Marcelo Bielsa, aims to capitalize on Argentina's injury woes. After previous success against La Albiceleste, including a significant 2-0 victory in their last meeting in November 2023, they are filled with hope. With players like Darwin Nunez in form, they seek to create more attacking threats and bolster their qualification bid.
Interestingly, Uruguay's form has been inconsistent recently, as they have drawn three of their last five qualifying matches. This inconsistency has raised questions about their offensive capabilities; they recorded more goals in a single match against Colombia (three) than in the remainder of those four games combined (two). Their hope for success hinges on converting opportunities into goals.
The stakes are high for both teams as the March qualifiers draw to a close. A victory for Argentina could put substantial distance between them and Uruguay, while a win for La Celeste would reduce that gap to just two points, further intensifying the race for the 2026 World Cup qualification.
In preparation for the match, Argentina is expected to field a lineup including Emi Martinez, Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez, and Nicolas Gonzalez. Uruguay's projected starting eleven will likely feature Sergio Rochet, Nahitan Nandez, Ronald Araujo, Jose Gimenez, Marcelo Saracchi, Rodrigo Bentancur, Fede Valverde, Maxi Araujo, Darwin Nunez, Facundo Pellistri, and Rodrigo Aguirre.
The match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET, and fans can follow the action through n streaming platform Fanatiz. The betting odds reflect the competitive nature of the game, with Uruguay listed at +145 to win, Argentina at +210, and the draw at +190, promising an exciting contest.
As the rivalry rekindles and the world watches, Argentina and Uruguay will clash not just for points but for pride and history, making this World Cup qualifier a must-see event in the football calendar.
