Argentina approaches the next match with the question of who will take the next penalty

In the 2026 World Cup, Argentina is one step from the semi‑finals and the pressure on penalty takers is mounting. After Lionel Messi missed two spot‑kicks in the group stage, DSPORTS' poll asks fans who should step up if the chance arises against Switzerland. The choice could shape the team's destiny.

What did the fan poll reveal?

Over 60 % of voters favored Lautaro Martínez, while Julián Álvarez received 25 % and Enzo Fernández 10 %. Only 5 % kept Messi as the primary option. The poll, posted on July 7 2026, mirrors fan unease after the misses versus Austria and Egypt, where the captain saw his shot saved.

Why does Messi's record raise concerns?

Messi has taken eight World Cup penalties, converting four, leaving him with a 50 % success rate. His most recent failures came against Austria (June 22) and Egypt (October 2022). He also became the first player to miss two penalties in a single edition, not counting shoot‑outs. That negative record weighs on the squad's confidence.

Who are the viable alternatives?

Lautaro Martínez scored his first World Cup goal against Jordan, showing composure under pressure. Julián Álvarez has displayed accuracy in club free‑kicks and already found the net in the group stage. Enzo Fernández and Leandro Paredes, regular penalty takers for their clubs, also appear as options, though they are not regular starters.

What does the decision mean for the upcoming clash with Switzerland?

If coach Lionel Scaloni picks Martínez or Álvarez, he could break the historic reliance on Messi for spot‑kicks. A fresh taker might surprise the Swiss keeper and ease the captain's mental load. Should Messi remain the first choice, the risk of another miss stays, even though his experience is undeniable.

Argentina’s last win was 2‑0 over Angola on November 14 2025, and the side is on a three‑game winning streak (WWW). That recent momentum bolsters the squad’s confidence heading into the Swiss showdown.