18/06/2026 13:50 - Deportes
Leandro Paredes entrenando con la camiseta de la Selección Argentina en prácticas del Mundial 2026, con profesionales médicos evaluando su recuperación muscular
The Argentina National Team kicked off their World Cup 2026 campaign in spectacular fashion, defeating Algeria 3-0 at Kansas City Stadium. Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance with a hat-trick (16th, 59th, and 75th minutes), matching Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals. Messi also became the first player in history to participate in six World Cup tournaments.
However, one notable absence from the pitch was Leandro Paredes. The Boca Juniors midfielder—a key figure in Lionel Scaloni's tactical system—remained on the bench throughout the entire match.
The central midfielder is nursing a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Boca Juniors in a Copa Libertadores match against Universidad Católica. Although he had joined training sessions normally, Scaloni decided to preserve him.
Key factors in the decision:
"Leandro doesn't need to be rushed—he's fine, and we won't push him. He'll likely be with the group by the weekend. He's staying with us, that's certain."
The coach confirmed that Paredes will remain in the World Cup squad despite his injury, dispelling any speculation about a potential replacement.
Argentina's next match is against Austria on Monday, June 22, 2026 at 14:00 local time at Dallas Stadium. The Austrian team opened their campaign with a 3-1 victory over Jordan in Group J.
With a full week of training and additional recovery time, hopes are high that Paredes will feature against Austria. The question remains whether Scaloni will start him or bring him on as a substitute during the second half.
Other squad notes: Nicolás Tagliafico (experienced left-back, currently at Lyon in France) was also unavailable due to a muscle tear. Meanwhile, Facundo Medina (defender from Lens, France) made his World Cup debut as a starter in place of veteran Nicolás Otamendi, delivering an impressive performance.
| Date | Opponent | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 16, 2026 | Algeria | Kansas City | Won 3-0 |
| June 22, 2026 | Austria | Dallas | Upcoming |
| June 27, 2026 | Jordan | Dallas | Upcoming |
Argentina leads the group with 3 points and a +3 goal difference. Austria also has 3 points with a +2 goal difference (after their 3-1 win over Jordan). Algeria and Jordan have zero points.
Sources: TyC Sports, El Intransigente
Alfredo S. Quiroga
