Argentina have confirmed their starting lineup for the FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland. Head coach Lionel Scaloni keeps faith with the core of his team and makes just one key change: Leandro Paredes comes into the starting XI.
Confirmed starting:
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Goalkeeper: Emiliano "Dibu" Martínez
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Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Cristian "Cuti" Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás Tagliafico
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Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Leandro Paredes, Alexis Mac Allister
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Forwards: Lionel Messi and Julián Álvarez
Scaloni opts for a 4-4-2 formation, with Paredes and Enzo Fernández anchoring the midfield while De Paul and Mac Allister are given greater freedom to support Messi and Julián Álvarez in attack. At the back, he sticks with the defensive line that has performed best throughout the tournament: Romero and Lisandro Martínez at centre-back, flanked by Molina and Tagliafico.
A strong road to the quarter-finals
Argentina head into the quarter-finals after building momentum throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The defending champions topped Group J, opening their campaign with a convincing 3-0 win over Algeria, securing qualification with a 2-0 victory against Austria, and finishing the group stage with a draw against Jordan that ensured they remained top of the group.
The knockout rounds have proved far more demanding. Argentina edged past surprise package Cape Verde 3-2 in the Round of 32 before defeating Egypt by the same scoreline in the Round of 16 to book their place in the last eight. Scaloni's side now face Switzerland, who reached the quarter-finals after defeating Algeria in the Round of 32 and eliminating Colombia on penalties following a goalless draw in the Round of 16.
Messi aims for another step towards the title
Once again, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi, who remains the footballing and emotional leader of the Argentine national team. The captain has once again made the difference during this World Cup and will be looking to inspire La Albiceleste to another semi-final appearance.
Alongside him, Julián Álvarez has established himself as Argentina's leading striker, while players such as Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister and Rodrigo De Paul have provided the balance that has allowed the team to blend experience with youthful energy.
With just one change from the previous match, Scaloni has once again backed continuity. He will hope that the inclusion of Leandro Paredes brings greater control in midfield and helps Argentina overcome a disciplined Swiss side as they continue their quest to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.