Argentina will be without Julian Alvarez, Nahuel Molina and Giuliano Simeone for their upcoming friendly against Angola after the trio failed to meet entry health requirements for the African nation. The match comes after Lionel Scaloni’s side completed their CONMEBOL 2026 World Cup qualifiers and remained unbeaten in subsequent friendlies against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.
According to a statement from the Argentine Football Association (AFA), the three players did not arrive in time to complete the yellow fever vaccination procedures necessary for travel to Angola. As a result, they have been ruled out of the squad for what would have been Argentina’s third post-qualifier friendly.F
Their absence adds to Argentina’s growing list of omissions. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez is sidelined with bone oedema in his right knee, forcing Scaloni to reshuffle his line-up and provide opportunities for lesser-used players. Forwards Jose Manuel Lopez and Joaquin Panichelli could feature alongside Lionel Messi, who continues to lead the side.
Scaloni has made only one addition to his squad, calling up defender Kevin Mac Allister, the brother of Alexis Mac Allister. The Union Saint-Gilloise player could make his senior international debut after an impressive club campaign.
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is also absent, having been granted a rest by the coaching staff. In his place, Geronimo Rulli and Walter Benitez will share duties between the posts. Leandro Paredes and Gonzalo Montiel were likewise left out, as both remain in domestic competition with Boca Juniors and River Plate respectively.
Young midfielder Franco Mastantuono has not joined the squad either due to groin discomfort that has also kept him out of recent Real Madrid fixtures. In his stead, Thiago Almada has been included, strengthening his foothold in Scaloni’s plans.
Argentina, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, continue to fine-tune their squad and rotation under Scaloni as preparations for next summer’s tournament gather pace.
