Colombia currently occupy the last automatic qualification spot with 21 points from 15 matches.
But Venezuela’s back-to-back wins have closed the gap to just three points, meaning Colombia must tread carefully as the race tightens.
A loss to Argentina may not immediately cost them their position, but if Venezuela manage to take points from Uruguay, the gap could vanish—setting up a tense finale for Colombia’s campaign.
After scoring the winner against Chile, Julián Álvarez has now netted four goals in the qualifiers and will be eager to deliver again for La Albiceleste.
Lionel Messi, who came off the bench last time to replace Nico Paz, is expected to return to the starting lineup. The captain has six goals so far in the qualifiers and will be aiming to add to his tally.
On the Colombian side, Jhon Durán remains a doubt after being substituted at halftime in the previous match. However, they’ll be boosted by the return of Luis Díaz from suspension.
The Liverpool winger is currently joint-top scorer in CONMEBOL qualifiers alongside Messi, and he could surpass the Argentine legend if he finds the net again.
Meanwhile, James Rodríguez remains a creative force for Colombia, having created nine clear chances and provided five assists so far. He’ll be expected to play a pivotal role once again.***
Predicted Argentina Starting XI:
Martínez; Molina, Romero, Balerdi, Tagliafico; De Paul, Palacios; Simeone, Messi, Almada; Álvarez
Predicted Colombia Starting XI:
Mier; Muñoz, Mina, Sánchez, Borja; Lerma, Castaño; Arias, Rodríguez, Hernández; Suárez
