Argentina is set to kick off their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup with an international friendly against Honduras at Kyle Field in Texas. Coach Lionel Scaloni’s team is aiming to join an elite group of just three nations that have managed to defend their World Cup title.
The current champions enter this fixture with confidence, following recent friendly wins over Mauritania and Zambia. They also secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Angola in another preceding warm-up match. Despite suffering four losses during the CONMEBOL qualifying rounds, Argentina dominated the group, finishing nine points ahead of Ecuador and maintaining a ten-point lead over Brazil, who placed fifth.
The official Argentina national team X account recently shared images from their final training session in Texas. The photos display players engaged in drills, sharing smiles, and practicing ball control, all of which hint at their preparedness and collective spirit.
Lionel Messi has once again proven to be a crucial player during the qualification process, leading La Albiceleste both in goals and assists as he approaches what may be his sixth World Cup.
Argentina was originally slated to play Spain in the Finalissima earlier this year, but the match was called off due to escalating tensions in the Middle East. Scaloni’s squad will also face Iceland prior to beginning their World Cup journey against Algeria in Group J.
Honduras, on the other hand, arrives in Texas after narrowly missing out on qualification following a frustrating goalless draw against Costa Rica, which cost them a playoff position on goal difference. This disappointment led to the departure of head coach Reinaldo Rueda, with Jose Francisco Molina now charged with the responsibility of rebuilding the team.
Honduras will be looking to players like Luis Palma and young Liverpool talent Keyrol Figueroa to deliver a competitive performance against the reigning world champions.
Team News
Argentina may choose to rest Lionel Messi as he recovers from muscle fatigue. Additionally, Emiliano Martinez is dealing with a finger injury, and Gonzalo Montiel is ruled out due to a muscular issue.
For Honduras, Joseph Rosales is expected to play in familiar territory in Texas, while the promising younger player Keyrol Figueroa may assume a significant attacking role alongside Luis Palma.
Possible Lineups
Argentina possible starting lineup:
Rulli; Molina, Martinez, Otamendi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez; Alvarez, Martinez, Simeone
Honduras possible starting lineup:
Menjivar; Maldonado, Rosales, Vega, Melendez; Rodriguez, Arriaga, Alvarez, Ruiz; Palma, Rivas
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | Amazon Prime Video |
| Kick-off Time | 01:00 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Argentina 3-0 Honduras.
Even in Messi’s absence, Argentina has an abundance of offensive talent and experience that should give them the upper hand against Honduras. Scaloni’s squad is expected to control possession and generate numerous scoring opportunities, particularly against a Honduras side still reeling from their qualification setback.
