Argentina expected to start Lionel Messi against Benin in Buenos Aires friendly

Argentina are set to welcome Benin to Buenos Aires for an international friendly, with Lionel Messi expected to captain the hosts as Lionel Scaloni continues to prepare his squad for upcoming commitments.

The match will give Argentina an opportunity to refine their understanding and assess several options within the team. Benin, meanwhile, will use the fixture to test themselves against one of the world’s leading national sides and gain experience from the occasion.

Argentina

Scaloni is expected to select a 4-4-2 formation, with Argentina likely to focus on controlling possession before looking to attack quickly in transition.

Messi should lead the forward line and remain the main attacking figure for the Albiceleste. The Argentina manager could make several changes to his usual line-up, using the friendly to examine different possibilities and provide playing time to a number of players.

Probable Argentina XI

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

Benin

Gernot Rohr is expected to retain Benin’s 4-3-3 system, while making adjustments to deal with the challenge posed by Argentina.

Steve Mounie is unavailable for the game and is expected to support his team-mates from the stands. His absence could give Junior Olaitan a more prominent role in attack as the Guepards look to remain organised and make the most of their chances on the counter-attack.

Probable Benin XI

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