Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni is reportedly preparing a significant tactical change ahead of Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup Round of 16 clash with Egypt, with Julián Álvarez expected to replace Lautaro Martínez in the starting line-up.
According to Argentine outlet Olé, signs emerging from the Argentina camp indicate Álvarez is now the favourite to spearhead the attack against the Pharaohs in Atlanta.
The report says Scaloni was particularly encouraged by Álvarez’s energetic performance against Cape Verde in the previous round, despite Argentina requiring extra time to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory.
That encounter exposed areas the defending champions are keen to improve before facing a disciplined Egyptian side.
Alvarez’s pressing gives Argentina a new dimension
A major factor behind the expected selection change is Álvarez’s relentless pressing, which Argentina’s coaching staff believe can unsettle Egypt’s defensive build-up from the opening whistle.
Although Martínez has started Argentina’s four previous World Cup matches and found the net against Jordan, statistical analysis published by Olé suggests Álvarez has provided greater defensive intensity whenever introduced.
According to the report, Martínez completed 76 pressing actions across 335 minutes, averaging 20.4 pressing actions per 90 minutes, while Álvarez produced 40 pressing actions in just 126 minutes—an average of 28.6 per 90 minutes.
The figures highlight the contrasting qualities of the two forwards, with Martínez offering physical presence inside the penalty area and Álvarez bringing constant movement and aggressive pressing higher up the pitch.
Protecting Messi remains a priority
The report also notes that Álvarez’s return to full fitness after recovering from an ankle injury sustained during his time at Atlético Madrid has strengthened his chances of reclaiming a starting place.
Although he did not score against Cape Verde, Argentina’s coaching staff were reportedly impressed by his mobility, work rate and ability to create space for teammates.
Scaloni is also said to be focused on reducing the defensive workload of captain Lionel Messi, allowing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner to conserve energy for decisive moments in attack.
Álvarez’s pressing and tireless movement are viewed as key elements in achieving that balance.
Egypt chasing African history
Argentina face Egypt on Tuesday in Atlanta with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
For the Pharaohs, victory would make them only the fifth African nation to reach the FIFA World Cup quarter-finals, while Argentina will be aiming to continue the defence of their world title.
