Argentina face Switzerland in the World Cup quarter-finals tonight with Lionel Scaloni potentially forced into changes after a gruelling knockout run. The defending champions required extra time to beat Cape Verde and staged a remarkable late comeback against Egypt in the last-16, with Enzo Fernandez scoring a 93rd-minute winner.
Fatigue concerns after Egypt victory
Heavy legs and tired faces were evident at full-time against Egypt, where Argentina were run ragged before their dramatic recovery. Scaloni may rotate to keep his side fresh ahead of a potential semi-final, but the question remains whether he can afford to drop key players.
Lionel Messi, at 39, has played 410 minutes at this tournament alone. He was peripheral for much of the Egypt match but assisted Cristian Romero's 79th-minute equaliser before scoring himself in the 83rd minute, underscoring his critical role. Despite fatigue, Messi is expected to keep his place on the right-hand side of the attack.
Predicted lineup changes
Lautaro Martinez is set to replace Julian Alvarez after the latter's underwhelming first start of the summer against Egypt. Enzo Fernandez, despite appearing drained, should continue as the No.10, with Alexis Mac Allister behind him. Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo De Paul are expected to complete the midfield.
Cristian Romero was sent for scans after the Egypt game due to a calf niggle but has been passed fit and should start alongside Lisandro Martinez in central defence.
Predicted Argentina XI vs Switzerland
E. Martinez; Tagliafico, L. Martinez, Romero, Molina, Paredes, De Paul, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Messi, Lautaro Martinez.
Match details
How to watch: ITV1. Time and date: 2am BST on Sunday, July 12. Venue: Kansas City Stadium.
