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As the anticipation builds for the upcoming Copa America, Argentina is set to fine-tune their preparations with a friendly against Guatemala. This exciting encounter will take place at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland, on Friday night. Both teams are coming off recent victories, with Argentina edging out Ecuador 1-0, and Guatemala triumphing 3-0 over the British Virgin Islands in a World Cup qualifier. Here's a comprehensive preview of the match.
Recent Form and Performance
Argentina
Argentina’s national team, under the guidance of Lionel Scaloni, is in excellent form. They kicked off their Copa America warm-up fixtures with a narrow 1-0 win against Ecuador in Chicago. The sole goal came from the experienced Angel Di Maria in the 40th minute. This victory marks Argentina’s fourth consecutive win, building on their previous friendly successes against El Salvador and Costa Rica in March, and a crucial 1-0 World Cup qualifying win over Brazil in November 2023.
Scaloni's squad is currently enjoying an impressive streak of 11 straight friendly victories, a run that stretches back over five years without a loss in non-competitive matches. This consistency makes them strong favorites to extend their winning streak against Guatemala.
Argentina, the 2022 World Cup champions, are gearing up for the Copa America with high hopes. Their campaign kicks off against Canada on June 20, followed by group stage matches against Chile and Peru. With a formidable squad and recent triumphs, Argentina is the favorite to clinch their 16th Copa America title, which would place them ahead of Uruguay in the all-time winners' list. They are also defending champions, having defeated Brazil 1-0 in the 2021 final.
Guatemala
Guatemala, managed by Luis Fernando Tena, enters this friendly match on a high note. They have registered significant victories in their recent fixtures, including a 6-0 thrashing of Dominica and a 3-0 win over the British Virgin Islands in their 2026 World Cup qualifiers. These results have placed them at the top of Group E with six points.
The Blue and Whites are currently on a four-match unbeaten streak, including draws with Venezuela and Nicaragua in earlier friendlies. They have not tasted defeat since their 2-0 loss to Ecuador on March 22. Guatemala’s upcoming fixtures include another friendly against El Salvador before resuming their CONCACAF Nations League campaign in September.
Historically, Guatemala has struggled against Argentina, managing a goalless draw in their first meeting back in January 1990. However, their subsequent encounters have seen Argentina emerge victorious with 4-0 and 3-0 wins in June 2013 and September 2018, respectively.
Key Players to Watch
Argentina
- Lionel Messi: The ever-present star and captain, Messi remains the heart of the Argentine attack. His vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability make him a constant threat to any defense.
- Angel Di Maria: The veteran winger proved his worth with the decisive goal against Ecuador. His pace and creativity on the flanks will be crucial.
- Emiliano Martinez: The Aston Villa goalkeeper has been a reliable figure between the sticks for Argentina, providing security and confidence to the backline.
Guatemala
- Carlos Mejía: Known for his playmaking skills, Mejía will be crucial in orchestrating Guatemala’s attacks and creating opportunities against a strong Argentine defense.
- Nicholas Samayoa: The solid defender will need to be at his best to keep the Argentine forwards at bay. His performance will be key in ensuring Guatemala remains defensively resolute.
- Darwin Lom: The striker has shown his goal-scoring prowess in recent matches and will be looking to capitalize on any chances against Argentina.
Tactical Analysis
Argentina
Scaloni’s approach often revolves around a fluid attacking system, capitalizing on the creative talents of Messi and Di Maria. The midfield, typically anchored by the likes of Leandro Paredes and Rodrigo De Paul, provides a blend of defensive solidity and forward thrust. Argentina's defense, marshaled by the experienced Nicolas Otamendi, is expected to maintain a high line, pressing the opposition and quickly transitioning into attack.
In this friendly, Scaloni might experiment with different formations and personnel to fine-tune his strategies for the Copa America. Given their superior skill and tactical acumen, Argentina will likely dominate possession and attempt to break down Guatemala’s defense through intricate passing.
