Reigning world champions Argentina return to the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires for another World Cup 2026 qualifier, this time against Venezuela. With Lionel Messi leading the way, Argentina is already assured of its ticket to the tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Venezuela, however, still has everything to play for, sitting in seventh place with hopes of clinching the playoff spot.
The clash is more than just another qualifier—it could mark Lionel Messi’s final World Cup qualifying match on home soil. The Argentina captain himself has hinted at the moment being special, with family in attendance to witness the occasion. For Venezuela, the task is simple yet daunting: upset the world champions to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
What time does Argentina vs Venezuela start today?
The Argentina vs Venezuela World Cup qualifier will take place on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the iconic Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires.
- Local time (Argentina): 8:30 p.m.
- Eastern Time (USA): 7:30 p.m.
- Central Time: 6:30 p.m.
- Mountain Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Pacific Time: 4:30 p.m.
- India (IST): 5:00 a.m. on Friday
This will be the 30th meeting between the two nations, with Argentina historically dominating the fixture, having won 24 of the previous 29 encounters.
How to watch Argentina vs Venezuela?
Fans worldwide will be eager to tune in. Here’s how you can catch the action:
- India: Live streaming exclusively on FanCode. No TV broadcast is available.
- United States: Watch live on Telemundo and Universo (Spanish commentary). Streaming options include Fubo, Peacock, ViX, and Telemundo Deportes En Vivo. English coverage is not available.
- Australia: Stream free on SBS On Demand. Note: geo-restricted to Australia, but fans can use a VPN to access from elsewhere.
If you’re new to Fubo, they also offer a free trial, allowing fans in the U.S. to catch the game without paying up front.
Argentina vs Venezuela lineups, team news
Argentina
Lionel Scaloni has the luxury of rotating his squad, with Argentina already confirmed as group winners. Messi is set to start in what could be his last World Cup qualifier at home. Enzo Fernández is suspended, while Lisandro Martínez is out injured. Paulo Dybala and Matias Soule miss out on selection.
Scaloni has also included exciting youngsters such as Nico Paz, Claudio Echeverri, and Franco Mastantuono, who may get valuable minutes. In defense, Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero are expected to continue their partnership, while Emiliano Martinez remains the first-choice goalkeeper.
Argentina predicted lineup (4-3-3):
E. Martinez (GK) — Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Tagliafico — De Paul, Mac Allister, Almada — Messi, Alvarez, Paz
Venezuela
Fernando Batista faces several injury headaches. First-choice goalkeeper Jose Contreras remains sidelined, so Rafael Romo is likely to start. In midfield, Yangel Herrera is ruled out with a hamstring injury, while striker Jhonder Cadiz and midfielder Jose Martínez also miss out due to injuries.
That leaves Venezuela reliant on Salomon Rondon, who will lead the attack with support from Yeferson Soteldo. Cristian Cásseres Jr. should partner José Martínez in midfield, while Ferraresi and Ángel will anchor the defense.
Venezuela predicted lineup (4-3-3):
Romo (GK) — Aramburu, Navarro, Angel, Ferraresi — J. Martinez, Casseres, Bello — D. Martinez, Rondon, Soteldo
FAQs about Argentina vs Venezuela
- Is Lionel Messi playing today against Venezuela?
Yes. Lionel Messi is set to start for Argentina in what could be his last World Cup qualifying match on home soil. - Where can I watch Argentina vs Venezuela for free?
Fans in Australia can stream the game free on SBS On Demand. Viewers outside Australia can access it using a VPN. - What TV channel is showing Argentina vs Venezuela in the USA?
The match will air on Telemundo and Universo (Spanish commentary). Live streaming is available on Fubo, Peacock, ViX, and Telemundo Deportes En Vivo. - Has Venezuela ever beaten Argentina?
Yes, but rarely. Out of 29 matches played, Argentina has won 24 times, while Venezuela has managed only two victories. - What’s at stake for Venezuela in this match?
Venezuela is fighting for a playoff spot. They currently sit seventh in the CONMEBOL standings, which means every point is crucial to keep their World Cup dream alive.
