Argentine star ruled out of the first two matches.

Argentina have been dealt a setback ahead of their FIFA World Cup campaign, with defender Nicolás Tagliafico ruled out of the team’s opening two group matches due to injury.

According to reports from sports journalist Fernando Cejas, Tagliafico has suffered a minor strain in the soleus muscle of his left leg. As a result, he is expected to miss Argentina’s matches scheduled for 17 June and 22 June.

Although the tournament has already begun and preparations are underway, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has been monitoring several injury concerns within the squad. While some players are gradually recovering, Tagliafico’s condition has required specific medical attention, affecting his immediate availability.

The national team’s coaching staff and medical department have decided that Tagliafico will remain with the squad during the ongoing assessment period. His condition will be reviewed after each training session up until Sunday, after which a further evaluation will determine his recovery progress.

It has also been stated that he will not feature in Argentina’s opening group fixtures against Algeria and Austria. Despite his absence from match participation, he will continue to be part of the team environment during recovery.

Argentina are placed in Group J of the FIFA World Cup, alongside Algeria, Austria and Jordan. The team is scheduled to begin its World Cup campaign on 17 June with its opening fixture in the group stage.

The situation adds to the selection considerations for the coaching staff as they prepare for the start of the tournament, with squad fitness being closely managed in the lead-up to competitive matches.

Injury and Team Update Summary

Argentina’s coaching and medical teams continue to assess player fitness ahead of their opening fixture, with Tagliafico’s condition being monitored as part of the squad’s ongoing preparation process.