Paraguay vs Argentina live stream
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The next match between Paraguay and Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers is turning into one of the spiciest encounters of this entire CONMEBOL zone. These two South American football behemoths are ready to take on each other for points in their increasingly heated match, scheduled for November 14, 2024, at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco in Asunción. This will be a hotly contested match as both teams are sure to make it to the greatest sporting event in the world, with much drama and classy football.
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Below, we go into a detailed preview of the Paraguay vs Argentina match by looking at recent form, key players, tactical setup, and what one should expect. We shall look into their head-to-head record and give some insight into the lineups that are expected to feature in this fixture.
Recent Form: Paraguay
Paraguay currently lie 6th in the standings and, over this qualifying period, have had rather an inconsistent but solid form. The team has been able to put up respectable performances in home matches. Despite an otherwise modest win record, the Paraguayan outfit has been resilient, winning two and drawing two of their last four matches, including the surprise 1-0 win over Brazil that considerably improved their qualification chances.
Nevertheless, this team's attack has been the worry. The Paraguayans have misfired on several occasions to find the back of the net, and recent matches have involved them in low-scoring affairs. Their squad's defensive unit has been tighter, as they are well-structured to hold their own even against powerhouses across South America.
Recent Form: Argentina
As they are currently at the helm of the South American World Cup qualification table, they go into this match as heavy favorites. The Argentine team under the stewardship of Lionel Scaloni has been in scintillating form, managing to win seven times in the last 10 qualifiers. Thus, no doubts surround the attacking structure of the team, spearheaded by none other than Lionel Messi himself, who continuously defies his age with brilliance on the pitch. Argentina had a good mix of experienced players with young talents, enabling them to dominate most of their matches.
Bottom line, in their last qualifier, Argentina beat Bolivia 6-0, emphasizing the attacking aspect of their game. However, they have also shown weaknesses this season; a case in point was the 1-1 draw in Venezuela last October 2024. Nonetheless, for the qualifiers, their overall performance is very impressive, so they are more or less likely to come into the Paraguay match with confidence.
Head-to-Head: Paraguay vs Argentina
Historically speaking, Argentina has had the upper hand in meetings between these two teams. Both teams have met 17 times since 2004; Argentina has come out on top 7 times, while Paraguay has managed to record just 3 wins and 9 of their clashes have been stalemates. On average, meetings between both teams have been high-scoring, averaging 2.42 goals per match.
Their last meeting, on October 12, 2023, ended in favor of Argentina with a 1-0 win. While their previous outing in Asunción ended goalless and scoreless in October 2021, the fixture has been dominated by Argentina in recent years. However, Paraguay has held their own in certain matches at home.
Key Players to Watch
Paraguay
Antony Silva-GK: The Paraguayan skipper is also the goalkeeper of the team and will be very important in saving his team from the Argentine attack. With many important saves in his kitty, Silva's experience and leadership at the back will be so vital in this high-intensity encounter.
Miguel Almirón, Midfielder: With his blistering pace and dribbling ability, Almirón is Paraguay's biggest weapon in attack. His creativity and ability to make decisive runs may cause some problems for the Argentine defense, particularly on the counter-attack.
Carlos González will lead the frontline for Paraguay. With aerial ability, he could make the most of any chances created.
Lionel Messi (Forward): The mere presence of Messi on the pitch changes the dynamics of the game for Argentina. Although in his twilight years, Messi's vision and passing-not to talk about his goal-scoring ability-remain incomparable. He will be the focal point of an Argentine attack, and Paraguay will have to try and find a way to null him.
Julian Álvarez, Forward: So far, Álvarez has had a great season between Argentina and Manchester City, boasting pace, intelligence, and finishing that are perfect complements to Messi up front.
Enzo Fernández (Midfielder): Fernández has been integral to Argentina's success, mainly because of his indefatigable work rate and versatility in midfield. He will be expected to put everything into breaking opposition attacks and supporting the offensive play that is going to determine the pace of the game.
Tactical Battle: Paraguay's Resilience vs. Argentina's Attacking Prowess
Paraguay would likely revert to a defensive pattern to keep off the attacking stars of Argentina. The team has preferred, under coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto, a compact and well-organized defense in frustrating opponents. Paraguay will look to absorb pressure before hitting Argentina on the break, using the pace of Almirón and the aerial threat of González to exploit any gaps left by Argentina's attacking fullbacks.
Meanwhile, Argentina will try to dominate the ball and set the rhythm of the match. Messi pulling the strings in the final third and Álvarez with his pace, Argentina will look to stretch this Paraguayan defense with quick passes and intricate movement in between. The battle in midfield will be crucial, with Enzo Fernández and Argentina's defensive midfielders trying to snuff out the counter-attacks to maintain control of the game.
Predicted Lineups
Paraguay (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Antony Silva
Defenders: Alberto Espínola, Gustavo Gómez, Fabián Balbuena, Miguel Samudio
Midfielders: Richard Sánchez, Miguel Almirón, Ángel Romero, Matías Rojas
Forwards: Carlos González, Juan Iturbe
Argentina: 4-3-3
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martínez
Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Nicolás Otamendi, Marcos Acuña
Midfielders: Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Julian Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez
Prediction of the Match
There is a slight edge going into this match, taking into consideration current form and head-to-head statistics. The depth and overall quality in attack-with Messi in the side-is just too great. However, Paraguay won't be a pushover. Playing at home, they will be determined to make life difficult for Argentina, as they did in their last home encounter.
Though Paraguay's defense has been resilient, it would go without saying that Argentina's attacking strength in itself, along with Messi leading the charge, would prove to be the turning point. We predict a 2-0 win for Argentina, which Messi, with his influence, will have a crucial part in breaking down the Paraguayans' defense.
Conclusion
The match between Paraguay and Argentina will be an interesting fight, as all the dynamics are balanced. Argentina remain firm favorites in the match due to their attacking brilliance, while Paraguay is a force with an impressive defensive record and home soil advantage. Both teams are embarking on their journey to qualify for the 2026 World Cup-a true indulgence for any football fraternity.
Do not miss the live action as these two South American giants go head-to-head for those crucial three points.