Overview
- Argentina has already clinched qualification and first place, while Venezuela remains in playoff contention and needs points in this window.
- Scaloni called the occasion emotional and confirmed Messi in the XI, with the plan for the full squad to travel to Ecuador depending on how Thursday ends.
- Alexis Mac Allister is unlikely to start after a late arrival and Enzo Fernández is suspended, with Otamendi expected to be available and minutes possible for Franco Mastantuono and Nicolás Paz.
- The Monumental is sold out for an AFA-organized tribute; kickoff is 20:30 local time with Telefé and TyC Sports broadcasting, and Chilean referee Piero Maza in charge.
- Venezuela coach Fernando Batista said his team hopes to spoil the celebration, and Scaloni reported Emiliano Martínez is in good spirits after his Manchester United move fell through.