Argentina — Venezuela : Match Preview and Prediction for October 11,2025

Argentina’s Dominant Qualifying Campaign

The reigning world champions, Argentina, demonstrated their prowess by effortlessly dominating the latest CONMEBOL qualifying campaign. They secured their World Cup berth from the top position with a considerable lead, setting the stage to defend their coveted title.

Commanding Lead in Qualifiers

Lionel Messi and his squad comfortably distanced themselves from their nearest rivals, finishing with a commanding nine-point advantage.

Recent Match Form and Preparations

Notably, a month prior, the Albiceleste convincingly defeated Venezuela 3-0 at home. Days later, they concluded their qualifying run with a 0-1 loss to Ecuador in Quito. However, Lionel Scaloni’s side was notably relaxed for that fixture, which held no real significance for their campaign.

Upcoming World Cup Preparations

The focus now shifts to direct World Cup preparations, commencing in Miami at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, a venue now familiar to Messi.

Squad News and Absentees for Argentina

Lionel Messi himself is expected to feature only as a substitute, if at all, against the Vinotinto, given his current match fitness. Key players like Foyth, Almada, Martinez, Dybala, and Medina are confirmed absentees. Nevertheless, coach Scaloni boasts a deep squad filled with top-tier talent capable of stepping in for the injured.

Coaching Change for Venezuela

Venezuela recently parted ways with their Argentine head coach, Fernando Batista, immediately following a crucial 3-6 home defeat to Colombia in the qualifiers. Their 8th-place finish ultimately sealed Batista’s fate.

New Leadership and Squad Rejuvenation

Oswaldo Vizcarrondo, a former Nantes player and national team defender, is now at the helm, preparing “La Vinotinto” for upcoming encounters against Belize and the reigning world champions. For this October international window, Vizcarrondo has temporarily opted for a squad rejuvenation, resting several experienced players. This decision likely stems from Venezuela’s need to regroup after their frustrating slide to 8th place, particularly after Bolivia’s unexpected victory over Brazil impacted their standings.

Key Absentees for Venezuela

Against Argentina, Venezuela will be without key figures such as Machís, Rondón, Rincón, and Herrera, effectively missing the backbone of their team. This presents an opportunity to observe how the younger talents and rotational players adapt and perform in the absence of their seasoned counterparts.