Argentina begin the post-Lionel Messi era with a fascinating friendly against new-look Uruguay on Friday in Buenos Aires.
Messi has called time on his legendary career for Argentina, having taken to the field for the Albiceleste for the final time last month. Now the focus turns to how Lionel Scaloni, who has recently signed a new contract until 2030, and Argentina can forge a new identity without Messi. They aim to reach a third straight World Cup final, with a wave of talented youngsters leading the charge.
It is also a time of change for Uruguay, with legendary striker Diego Forlan now in charge after Marcelo Bielsa stepped down following a very disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign. Uruguay struggled badly in the summer and were knocked out at the group stage after picking up just two points from three games.
How to watch Argentina vs Uruguay live, stream link and start time
Kick-off: 6pm ET on Friday (November 13)
Venue: La Bombonera, Buenos Aires, Argentina
TV channel/stream: ViX
Argentina team news
Julian Alvarez, Alexis Mac Allister and Enzo Fernandez are tasked with stepping up collectively in big moments and filling the huge void left by Messi’s departure. There are plenty of new players in the squad, and it will be intriguing to see how Argentina change as a team without Messi.
Uruguay team news
Forlan has made an okay start in charge. Uruguay lost their opening game against Japan, then won against South Korea and India in his next two matches, completing his first three games in charge. There is plenty of experience in this squad, and through the spine of the team, Jose Gimenez, Federico Valverde, Rodrigo Bentancur and Darwin Nunez will all be expected to lead this new cycle.
Argentina vs Uruguay prediction
This should be a fun game, and Uruguay look likely to hang in there. However, Argentina should have a little too much from the bench in attack. Prediction: Argentina 3-2 Uruguay.