Córdoba’s Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes will host Argentina’s next step into a post-World Cup cycle on 30 September, when Lionel Scaloni’s side welcome Bolivia for a friendly that offers the home team a first extended look beyond Lionel Messi. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00 Central Mexico time, with ViX Premium carrying the match.
Key takeaways
- Argentina will play Bolivia at the Mario Alberto Kempes Stadium in Córdoba on 30 September.
- Messi will be absent, giving Scaloni scope to assess different options within his squad.
- Emiliano Martínez, Cristian Romero, Alexis Mac Allister, Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez remain among the established Argentina players selected.
- Bolivia arrive after a 2-0 friendly defeat to Paraguay on Sunday 27 September.
- Argentina have beaten Bolivia five times under Scaloni, including a 6-0 victory in October 2024.
Argentina look beyond their captain
The evening in Córdoba is more than a routine preparation match for the world champions. With their captain unavailable, Argentina enter a period in which other players can take greater responsibility, while Scaloni considers combinations for the international fixtures ahead and the road towards the 2030 World Cup.
There is still a familiar core to the group. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, defender Cristian Romero, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and forwards Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez provide the experience that has underpinned Argentina’s recent successes. Around them, squad members with fewer opportunities will have a chance to earn minutes and make their case.
Scaloni can use the Bolivia meeting to test personnel, adjust roles and judge how the side responds without Messi as its central reference point. Although it is a friendly, it marks the beginning of a new planning phase after the World Cup.
Bolivia seek a response in Córdoba
Óscar Villegas takes Bolivia to Argentina following a difficult outing against Paraguay. La Verde were beaten 2-0 in their previous friendly on 27 September, a result they will aim to put behind them against significantly tougher opposition.
The Paraguay match also brought a missed chance from the spot. Miguel Terceros had the opportunity to reduce the deficit, but the Paraguayan goalkeeper saved his penalty. Bolivia now have another occasion to examine their options and continue their own preparations for the next World Cup cycle.
Recent history heavily favours the hosts: Argentina have recorded five wins over Bolivia during Scaloni’s tenure. The most emphatic came in October 2024, when Argentina won 6-0. Yet the setting in Córdoba brings a different feel, with both national teams beginning a renewed journey towards the next global tournament.
