Lionel Messi Loses Two Key Teammates Ahead of Argentina's Game vs Peru in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Argentina will be without two key players when they face Peru in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier on Thursday.

Lionel Messi will be without the services of Angel Di Maria and Leandro Paredes, who are both suspended for the match.

Di Maria was sent off in Argentina's last qualifier against Brazil, while Paredes picked up his second yellow card of the campaign in the same match.

The absences of Di Maria and Paredes are a major blow to Argentina, as both players are key members of the team. Di Maria is one of Argentina's most dangerous attacking players, while Paredes is a vital cog in the team's midfield.

Argentina will now have to find a way to replace Di Maria and Paredes in the starting lineup. One option could be to move Lautaro Martinez into a more attacking role, with Julian Alvarez coming into the team to replace him up front. Another option could be to give Giovani Lo Celso a start in midfield alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes.

Whoever Argentina decides to play, they will need to be at their best to beat Peru. Peru are a dangerous team, and they will be looking to make a statement against Argentina in front of their home crowd.

The match between Argentina and Peru will be played at the Estadio Nacional in Lima on Thursday, March 24. Kick-off is scheduled for 9:00pm local time.