Argentina's national team faces a key decision before the quarter‑final clash with Switzerland at World Cup 2026: Scaloni must choose between Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel at right‑back, and decide whether to keep Julián Álvarez or rely on Lautaro Martínez up front. The coach has confirmed that the core that beat Egypt will stay, but those two spots could tip the balance.

What defensive doubts does Scaloni have?

Scaloni is weighing the right‑back option. Molina started against Egypt, but Montiel came on in the second half and showed composure. The staff values Molina's pace against Montiel's experience, and this week's training sessions will be decisive. Meanwhile, the central defence looks set: Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez will likely pair up again, and Nicolás Tagliafico remains on the left.

Who will lead the attack?

Up front, the battle is between Julián Álvarez, who started the round of 16, and Lautaro Martínez, who entered and contributed to the last two goals. Álvarez offers mobility and high pressing; Martínez provides physical presence and a knack for finishing inside the box. Scaloni's choice will determine whether Argentina favors a possession‑based game or a more direct, powerful approach.

What does the rest of the squad keep?

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez stays as undisputed starter. In midfield, Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Leandro Paredes and Alexis Mac Allister form the engine that dominated large portions of the Egypt match. Paredes, in particular, left a strong impression and appears secured. Continuity aims to preserve the chemistry that helped the side overturn a 0‑2 deficit and progress.

How does recent form influence the decision?

Argentina arrives at the quarter‑finals on a 3‑win streak (3W‑0D‑0L) and its last result was a 2‑0 win over Angola on 14 Nov 2025. That winning run bolsters the squad's confidence and gives the coach leeway to experiment without jeopardising the goal of reaching the semifinals.

What lies ahead for La Albiceleste?

The next training session will be decisive to finalize the roster. If Scaloni picks Montiel, the defence gains experience; if he sticks with Molina, speed will be the weapon. In attack, the balance between Álvarez and Martínez will shape the style Argentina displays against a well‑organized, physical Switzerland. The world will watch how the coach blends continuity with tactical tweaks in one of the tournament's most anticipated matches.