Although Lionel Messi and Co have qualified for the knockout stages, Argentina vs Peru promises to be a thrilling encounter. Lionel Scaloni’s side despite being unbeaten hasn’t looked comfortable at all. In fact, in both the games so far, La Albiceleste hasn’t scored a single goal in the first half! Moreover, Messi’s form has come under scrutiny with La Pulga not having scored a single goal in the tournament.

On the other hand, for Peru, this is a do-or-die encounter. If Jorge Fossati’s side is to have any hopes of qualifying for the knockouts, they need the 3 points. For Peru, the biggest challenge is in scoring goals. As a matter of fact, they have been goalless in 8 of their last 12 matches. Before we look at the predicted lineups for Argentina vs Peru, let’s look at the latest team news.

Team and Injury News

Lionel Scaloni did say that changes will be made and opportunities will be provided for those who sat out previously. But, the big news is undoubtedly regarding Lionel Messi. Against Chile, the playmaker got muscle spasms after a rash tackle on the thigh. Although he did admit that the injury was nothing serious, as per the latest reports, Messi could miss the Peru clash! The likes of Lautaro Martinez and Alejandro Garnacho who are yet to start a single match, could receive more minutes in Messi’s absence.

Peru will be without Miguel Araujo who is serving a suspension after a red card against Canada. Luis Advincula’s availability is also up in the air after an Achilles injury in the opening game. Therefore, Marcos Lopez might reprise his role at left wing-back. On another note, Peru’s greatest-ever goalscorer Paolo Guerrero is on the verge of creating history. With one more strike, he can match Teodoro Fernandez as the best-scoring Peruvian player in Copa history (15).

Argentina vs Peru: Predicted Lineups

Argentina expected XI (4-3-3)

Martinez; Montiel, Pezzella, Otamendi, Acuna; Mac Allister, Palacios, Rodriguez; Di Maria, Garnacho, La. Martinez,

Peru Expected XI (3-5-2)

Gallese; Santamaria, Callens, Zambrano; Polo, Pena, Cartagena, Quispe, Lopez; Flores, Lapadula

When and how to watch Argentina vs Peru?

Argentina vs Peru kicks off at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on June 29 at 8:00 pm ET. Supporters can watch the English telecast on Fox Sports 1 while the Spanish version will be broadcast on TUDN. Fans can also live stream the game on the Fubo TV app.

Who do you think will come out on top in this thrilling encounter? Let us know your predictions for Argentina vs Peru below in the comments.