Argentina to host Venezuela in Miami friendly ahead of 2026 World Cup

Argentina will seek to return to winning ways when they host Venezuela in a friendly on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, a match that forms part of preparations for next summer’s World Cup. The reigning world champions arrive after a 1-0 loss to Ecuador in their final CONMEBOL qualifying game but have already secured a place at the 2026 tournament, topping the South American standings with 38 points from 18 matches, nine clear of second place.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni has framed the window as an opportunity to evaluate squad depth while preserving key players for the long term. Scaloni said when asked about Lionel Messi’s availability, "no risk will be taken," and the captain is expected to feature but is unlikely to play the full 90 minutes. The friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico will provide chances for fringe players to stake a claim for the World Cup squad. Real Madrid forward Franco Mastantuono is a doubt with hamstring discomfort, organisers said.

Venezuela, who missed out on qualification and finished eighth in CONMEBOL two points behind seventh-placed Bolivia, enter the match under an interim coach following the dismissal of Fernando Batista. The new...