[Watch Algeria vs Guatemala online in the US on Fubo]

Expect a lively international friendly as Guatemala continues to build momentum despite missing out on the upcoming World Cup, with the program showing steady growth and a belief that a first-ever qualification is within reach in the near future.

This FIFA Matchday presents a valuable measuring stick for the Central American side as they square off against World Cup–bound Algeria, a seasoned squad using this matchup to sharpen its roster and rhythm against a competitive opponent.

When will the Algeria vs Guatemala match be played?

Algeria face Guatemala in a 2026 friendly game this Friday, March 27, with the match kicking off at 3:30 PM (ET).

Algeria vs Guatemala: Time by State in the USA

ET: 3:30 PM
CT: 2:30 PM
MT: 1:30 PM
PT: 12:30 PM

How to watch Algeria vs Guatemala in the USA

This Friendly clash between Algeria and Guatemala will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo. Other options: FOX Deportes and FOX One.

The conflict stems from a FIFA rule that prohibits a national team from competing on two different continents during a single international window. Guatemala were in technical violation of this rule, as they are already scheduled to face Algeria on Friday, March 27, at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in Genoa, Italy.

Despite the logistical hurdle of traveling from Europe to South America in just four days, Guatemala are reportedly fully committed to making the trip to face the defending World Champions at La Bombonera, which is the confirmed venue.

Argentina reportedly working on another friendly

Following the sudden cancellation of the Finalissima, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is working to ensure Lionel Messi and the national team maintain their competitive rhythm. While the friendly against Guatemala has been confirmed for, reports indicate that a second fixture is also in the works.

According to ESPN insider Martin Arevalo, the AFA is finalizing a second friendly match scheduled for Friday, March 27. Although the opponent and venue for this earlier fixture have not yet been disclosed, the goal is to provide the squad with maximum preparation time in Argentina before they depart for the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Argentina roster for March friendlies

Below is the complete 28-man roster for the Guatemala friendly, headlined by Lionel Messi; the inclusion of Gianluca Prestianni stands out as one of the biggest surprises.

• Goalkeepers: Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez (Aston Villa), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille), Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid).

• Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid), Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla), Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille), Marcos Senesi (Bournemouth), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica), Tomas Palacios (Inter Milan), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon), Gabriel Rojas (Racing Club), Marcos Acuna (River Plate).

• Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Roma), Maximo Perrone (Como), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea), Valentin Barco (Strasbourg), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen).

• Forwards: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nico Paz (Como), Gianluca Prestianni (Benfica), Nicolas Gonzalez (Juventus), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Almada (Lyon), Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid).

While the squad features the familiar core of the reigning world champions, the inclusion of Benfica standout Gianluca Prestianni has emerged as the most polarizing talking point of the selection cycle.

Prestianni’s call-up comes amid significant controversy, as the 20-year-old remains at the center of a UEFA disciplinary investigation following an alleged racial slur directed at Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior during a heated Champions League clash in February.

Despite the ongoing storm surrounding the incident, Scaloni’s decision to integrate the young winger suggests the Albiceleste view him as a vital piece of their long-term depth chart ahead of this summer’s World Cup.

Below is the complete 28-man list for the Guatemala friendly, featuring Prestianni’s first senior call-up since the November international break:

• Goalkeepers: Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez (Aston Villa), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille), Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid).
• Defenders: Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid), Gonzalo Montiel (Sevilla), Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille), Marcos Senesi (Bournemouth), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica), Tomas Palacios (Inter Milan), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon), Gabriel Rojas (Racing Club), Marcos Acuna (River Plate).
• Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Roma), Maximo Perrone (Como), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea), Valentin Barco (Strasbourg), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen).
• Forwards: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nico Paz (Como), Gianluca Prestianni (Benfica), Nicolas Gonzalez (Juventus), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Almada (Lyon), Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid).

Surprises and snubs headline Messi-led roster

Defenders Gabriel Rojas and Tomas Palacios emerged as the standout surprises in Lionel Scaloni’s latest selection for Argentina’s upcoming friendly against Guatemala.

The duo’s inclusion highlights Scaloni’s continued commitment to integrating fresh defensive depth into the squad as the Albiceleste ramp up their preparations for a high-stakes summer in North America.

Perhaps the most notable omission from the squad is Franco Mastantuono, whose absence has fueled debate among the Argentine faithful. The Real Madrid phenom has endured a dip in form during his debut campaign at the Bernabeu, struggling to find consistent minutes in a crowded Madrid midfield.

With the roster officially set, Argentina will face Guatemala on March 31 in a match that serves as a crucial homecoming and farewell for the reigning world champions.

The friendly at La Bombonera marks the final domestic tune-up before the squad departs for the 2026 World Cup in June, where Lionel Messi and company will look to defend their crown on the world’s biggest stage.

“Following the cancellation of the Finalissima, Lionel Scaloni’s squad will travel to the country to undergo a week of intense collective training and play a friendly match on Tuesday, the 31st, against Guatemala. The work schedule, the call-up list for this FIFA window, and the stadium will be announced in the coming days,” the AFA stated in an official release.

In the next few days, Scaloni will announce the final roster of players who will join training next week for the last FIFA window prior to the World Cup. This will be the coach’s final opportunity to evaluate the players before finalizing the 26-man squad for the 2026 World Cup.

Who could make it to the final roster?

Regarding the roster, the coach is expected to consider the players he has consistently called up recently, though some surprises—such as Joaquin Panichelli of Racing Strasbourg—could earn a spot.

One of the primary uncertainties remains the presence of Lautaro Martinez, as the Inter Milan forward continues to recover from a strain to the soleus muscle in his left calf.

Not a new opponent for Messi

This Central American side is a familiar opponent for Argentina, as this will mark their fourth head-to-head meeting. Guatemala notably served as the first opponent of the Lionel Scaloni era back in 2018, when the manager debuted with a convincing 3–0 victory—a match played without Messi on the pitch.

However, the captain has faced Guatemala on other occasions with clinical results. Prior to the 2014 World Cup, Argentina defeated them 4–0, highlighted by a Messi hat-trick. He was also a key figure in their most recent encounter in June 2024, where the Albiceleste secured another 4–1 win with a brace from Leo.

Guatemala tried to respond through counterattacks and set pieces, but they struggled to break down Canada’s organized defense. Kenderson Navarro kept them in the game with several key saves, including a late stop on a Canadian counter.

Both sides made multiple substitutions to test squad depth and give players international minutes. Canada leave the pitch with a narrow win, while Guatemala will look to build on the experience as they prepare for upcoming challenges.

[Watch Canada vs Guatemala online in the US on Fubo]

In a World Cup year, every international fixture carries added weight, and this matchup is no exception as Canada continues its buildup toward a tournament it will host on home soil. With expectations rising, the Canadians are treating every appearance as a proving ground, eager to sharpen their identity against a challenging opponent in Guatemala.

While Guatemala is no longer in the World Cup picture, its steady progress and growing competitiveness make it a valuable test, giving Canada a meaningful opportunity to gauge its level against a respected CONCACAF rival and continue building momentum at a critical stage of preparation.

When will the Canada vs Guatemala match be played?

Canada play against Guatemala in a 2026 international friendly game this Saturday, January 18, with the match kicking off at 10:00 PM (ET).

Canada vs Guatemala: Time by State in the USA

ET: 10:00 PM
CT: 9:00 PM
MT: 8:00 PM
PT: 7:00 PM

How to watch Canada vs Guatemala in the USA

This International Friendly clash between Canada and Guatemala will be available for viewers in the USA on Fubo. Other options: FOX Deportes and FOX One.

[Watch Guatemala vs Suriname online in the US on Paramount+]

This matchup stands as one of the day’s biggest storylines in the final stretch of the CONCACAF Qualifiers, with Suriname chasing a historic first World Cup berth and holding a slight edge thanks to a +3 goal differential over fellow nine-point contender Panama.

Suriname controls its destiny, which means a victory would practically guarantee its qualification, but must navigate a tricky test against Guatemala, a side already out of the race yet determined to close its campaign with a strong performance.

When will the Guatemala vs Suriname match be played?

Guatemala will play against Suriname this Tuesday, November 18, for Matchday 6 of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers third round. The match is set to kick off at 8:00 PM (ET).

Guatemala vs Suriname: Time by State in the USA

ET: 8:00 PM
CT: 7:00 PM
MT: 6:00 PM
PT: 5:00 PM

How to watch Guatemala vs Suriname in the USA

The CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers matchup between Guatemala and Suriname will be available for viewers in the USA via Paramount+.

[Watch Guatemala vs Panama online in the US on Paramount+]

It’s a crucial showdown in Group A of the CONCACAF qualifiers as two contenders battle for direct advancement in the region’s most competitive group. Panama, sitting second with six points after a dramatic draw against Suriname, remain in striking distance of the top spot but trail on goal difference.

A win could completely shift the standings, yet the challenge is steep with Guatemala entering fresh off a gritty victory over El Salvador and eager to strengthen their claim for the group lead.

When will the Guatemala vs Panama match be played?

Guatemala receive Panama this Thursday, November 13, for Matchday 5 of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers third round. The match is set to kick off at 9:00 PM (ET).

Guatemala vs Panama: Time by State in the USA

ET: 9:00 PM
CT: 8:00 PM
MT: 7:00 PM
PT: 6:00 PM

How to watch Guatemala vs Panama in the USA

The CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers matchup between Guatemala and Panama will be available for viewers in the USA via Paramount+. Other options: Peacock and Telemundo.

Heading into the match, both teams sat at the bottom of the group standings, trailing Suriname and Panama, who drew earlier in the day to remain joint leaders with six points. That result made the clash between El Salvador and Guatemala even more crucial, as neither team could afford to drop points.

It was Guatemala who made the most of the opportunity. A well-placed strike from Oscar Santis early in the second half proved decisive, handing Luis Fernando Tena’s side a vital three points and reigniting their World Cup qualification hopes.

With this result, Guatemala picked up their first win of the qualifiers and now sit on five points, with two home matches remaining — against Suriname and Panama. El Salvador, meanwhile, drop to last place with three points and will need to win both of their remaining road games to keep their qualification hopes alive.

El Salvador currently sit third in the group with three points. They opened the qualifiers with a win over Guatemala away from home but then suffered back-to-back losses to Suriname and Panama at home.

Guatemala, meanwhile, remain winless in this round. After losing their opening game to El Salvador, they’ve drawn their last two matches against Suriname and Panama.

Suriname and Panama lead the group with five points each, followed by El Salvador with three and Guatemala with two. With only the top teams in each group earning automatic qualification — and the two best runners-up advancing to the playoff round — this fixture is crucial for both sides.

Probable lineup for El Salvador

El Salvador head coach Hernan Gomez will be forced to make several adjustments due to absences. Bryan Landaverde is suspended for yellow card accumulation, while Roberto Dominguez and Christian Martinez are both out injured.

Projected starting lineup for El Salvador: Mario Gonzalez; Julio Sibrian, Henry Romero, Jorge Cruz, Diego Flores; Jefferson Valladares, Darwin Ceren, Mauricio Cerritos, Marcelo Diaz, Styven Vasquez; Brayan Gil.

Probable lineup for Guatemala

Guatemala manager Luis Fernando Tena is expected to make two changes from the team that started against Suriname. Jose Mario Rosales will come into midfield for Rodrigo Saravia, while Rudy Muñoz returns to the lineup in place of Antonio de Jesus Lopez.

Projected starting lineup for Guatemala: Nicholas Hagen; Nicolas Samayoa, Aaron Herrera, Jose Morales, Jose Carlos Pinto; Jonathan Franco, Stheven Robles, Jose Mario Rosales; Rudy Muñoz, Oscar Santis, Rubio Rubin.

[Watch El Salvador vs Guatemala online in the US on Paramount+]

This matchup carries the weight of a do-or-die showdown, with both teams fully aware that anything short of a win could derail their qualifying hopes. While a loss wouldn’t mathematically eliminate either side, it would leave the underdogs clinging to slim chances of finishing in the top two.

El Salvador enters under pressure after back-to-back defeats following strong opening wins on the road, while Guatemala arrives with two consecutive draws and a prior loss. With so much on the line and no team able to afford a stalemate, this clash promises intensity from start to finish.

When will the El Salvador vs Guatemala match be played?

El Salvador take on Guatemala this Tuesday, October 14, for Matchday 4 of the CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers third round. The match is set to kick off at 10:00 PM (ET).

El Salvador vs Guatemala: Time by State in the USA

ET: 10:00 PM
CT: 9:00 PM
MT: 8:00 PM
PT: 7:00 PM

How to watch El Salvador vs Guatemala in the USA

The CONCACAF World Cup Qualifiers matchup between El Salvador and Guatemala will be available for viewers in the USA via Paramount+.Other options are Peacock, Amazon Prime Video and Telemundo.