Argentina concludes its revised March international schedule by welcoming Zambia to Buenos Aires for the first time ever. This friendly follows the cancellation of the planned La Finalissima match against Spain in Qatar due to the conflict in Iran.

Argentina's Preparations and Messi's Farewell Potential

The cancellation forced the Argentine Football Association to arrange friendlies against less formidable African opponents. In their recent match, the world champions secured a 2-0 victory over Mauritania, with goals from Enzo Fernández and Nico Paz, before conceding a late consolation goal.

Tuesday night's fixture carries significant emotional weight as it could be Lionel Messi’s final game representing the national team on Argentinian soil. While Messi has not finalized his decision regarding participation in this summer's World Cup, that tournament is widely expected to be his last with La Albiceleste.

Expectations for the World Champions

Against Zambia, Argentina will be eager to deliver a convincing performance at La Bombonera, especially after somewhat underwhelming against Mauritania. Messi, despite being 38, remains a crucial and special player, expected to shine against a defense he has historically dominated.

Coach Lionel Scaloni utilized 19 players in the previous match, suggesting further rotation for the Zambia game. Messi, who came off the bench against Mauritania, is anticipated to return to the starting eleven for this potential farewell appearance.

Projected Argentine Lineup Considerations

Julian Álvarez is likely to partner Messi in attack, as Lautaro Martínez is unavailable due to injury this month. Scaloni may also feature Giuliano Simeone on the right wing.

A key focus will be testing left-back Valentín Barco, who joined the squad following an excellent campaign with Strasbourg in Ligue 1. This position is considered an area of potential weakness heading into the World Cup, making Barco's performance vital.

Zambia's Visit and Squad Overview

Zambia, currently ranked 91st globally by FIFA, has never faced Argentina before. The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions have struggled since their victory, failing to advance past the group stages in their last three AFCON appearances.

The team is currently managed by Moses Sichone, following the departure of Avram Grant. Few Zambian players compete in Europe's top divisions, reflecting their current FIFA ranking.

Key Players for the Chipolopolo

Patson Daka, Pascal Phiri, and David Simukonda joined the squad late but have had time to prepare for the Buenos Aires match. Daka, Leicester City's Premier League striker, is Zambia's all-time leading goalscorer with 21 goals in 46 caps.

Lecce forward Lameck Banda, who recently recovered from a pitch collapse incident, offers an explosive option in transition against the Argentinian defense. Other players from clubs like Hibernian and Cagliari are also expected to feature.

Predicted Zambia Starting XI (as suggested by sources):

  • Chooma; M. Banda, Phiri, Kanda, Hamansenya; Siankombo, Bwembya, Chaiwa, Liteta; Daka, L. Banda.