Argentina will host Benin in Buenos Aires in a friendly as Lionel Scaloni’s side continue preparations for their next competitive commitments.
The match will give the Albiceleste an opportunity to refine their understanding and test different options within the squad. Benin, meanwhile, will welcome the chance to face one of the world’s leading national teams and measure themselves against a high-level opponent.
Argentina
Scaloni is expected to choose a 4-4-2 formation, with Argentina likely to focus on keeping possession and making the most of quick transitions.
Lionel Messi is set to start as captain and the team’s principal attacking leader. The Argentina manager could make several adjustments to his side, using the game to assess alternative solutions and offer playing time to a number of players.
The probable Argentina line-up is:
Goalkeeper: Emiliano Martinez
Defenders: Agustin Giay, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Roman Vega
Midfielders: Rodrigo De Paul, Nico Paz, Enzo Fernandez, Gianluca Prestianni
Forwards: Julian Alvarez, Lionel Messi
Messi’s inclusion is expected to provide the focal point for Argentina’s attack, with Julian Alvarez alongside him in the projected front two. The midfield is set to feature Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernandez, while Nico Paz and Gianluca Prestianni could also be given important roles.
Benin
Gernot Rohr is expected to retain Benin’s 4-3-3 formation, although the Guepards may make adjustments to deal with the challenge posed by Argentina.
Steve Mounie will miss the match and is expected to support his team-mates from the stands. His absence could lead to greater responsibility for Junior Olaitan in the attacking department.
Benin are likely to prioritise defensive organisation while looking to exploit opportunities on the counter-attack. Their midfield three is projected to include Hassane Imourane, Sessi d’Almeida and Dodo Dokou.
The probable Benin line-up is:
Goalkeeper: Marcel Dandjinou
Defenders: Tamimou Ouorou, Yohan Roche, Mohamed Tijani, Charlemagne Azongnitode
Midfielders: Hassane Imourane, Sessi d’Almeida, Dodo Dokou
Forwards: Aiyegun Tosin, Rodolfo Aloko, Junior Olaitan
The friendly in Buenos Aires will allow Benin to test their defensive resilience against Argentina’s possession-based approach, while the home side will use the fixture to continue building towards their upcoming challenges.