Argentina Names Squad for World Cup Qualifiers

Argentina's national football team, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, has announced a 28-player squad for crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Paraguay on November 14 and Peru on November 19. Star player Lionel Messi, the top scorer in qualifiers with six goals, headlines the roster, which includes the return of goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez and forward Alejandro Garnacho. The team is currently leading the CONMEBOL standings with 22 points from ten matches, aiming to secure their place in the 2026 World Cup. Notably absent from the squad are Paulo Dybala and Marcos Acuña, while young midfielder Enzo Barrenechea has received his first call-up. Argentina enjoys a solid lead over second-placed Colombia, which has 19 points. The matches will take place at Asunción and La Bombonera, respectively, amidst preparations for the Copa Libertadores final.