Argentina Faces Mauritania in Friendly Ahead of World Cup Argentina’s national soccer team is set to defend its World Cup title with a hastily scheduled friendly against Mauritania on Friday, marking the first of two planned home matches before the tournament begins this summer. The game carries added significance beyond the result, as it replaces the canceled Finalissima clash against Spain and could serve as one of the final opportunities for star player Lionel Messi to play in a competitive match on home soil in an Argentina jersey. The match will provide coach Lionel Scaloni with a chance to evaluate fringe players ahead of the final 26-man roster cut for the World Cup. Key absences, including injured strikers Lautaro Martínez and midfielder Giovani Lo Celso, have created openings for other players to showcase their skills ahead of the team’s Group J opener against Algeria on June 16. Mauritania, ranked 115th globally, enters the game as a significant underdog, having lost its last six matches. Its most recent victory came over two years ago in a CAF qualifying fixture against Togo. The African team’s head coach, Aritz Lopez Garai, described the encounter as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for his squad, as the nation has never faced a South American opponent. The question of Messi’s participation remains a focal point. While reports suggest he may not start, he could still enter the match as a substitute. The game is expected to be more of an exhibition than a competitive friendly, with Argentina likely prioritizing a strong display in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The match is scheduled for Friday, March 27, at La Bombonera stadium in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Kickoff time is set for 7:15 p.m. ET.#lionel_messi #lionel_scaloni #argentina_national_soccer_team #la_bombonera_stadium #argentina_world_cup_team
