Miguelito arrives as Bolivia’s main hope in the friendly against Algeria this Wednesday (10), at 9 pm (Brasília time), at Children’s Mercy Park, in Kansas City. The midfielder, who is coming off decisive performances for the national team, should be the offensive engine against a much more experienced and favorite Algerian team. The game, behind closed doors, serves as final preparation for the Africans towards the 2026 World Cup.
Called up and in good form, Miguelito has been one of the names most used by coach Óscar Villegas. His dribbling ability and vision of the game make him a key player in creating chances against the Algerian defense, which has names played in Europe.
Bolivia’s probable lineup
Viscarra; Rocha, Haquín, Morales, Fernandez; Matheus, Vaca, Villamil; Ribera,Miguelito, Paniagua. The base team comes from the last commitments and reinforces confidence in the Santos midfielder.
Algeria’s probable lineup
Zidane; Abada, Mandi, Belaid, Aït-Nouri; Zerrouki, Bentaleb, Aouar; Mahrez, Gouiri, Amoura. Vladimir Petkovic should use the duel to adjust the team that debuts against Argentina in the World Cup.
The clash marks a complicated test for Bolivia, ranked 76th in FIFA. Miguelito, who recently found the net in qualifying matches, carries the burden of generating danger in quick transitions against the #28 in the ranking.
Algeria, already qualified for the World Cup, uses the friendly to fine-tune tactical details in a controlled environment, without fans or broadcasts. The African team appears as a strong favorite at bookmakers.
Highlights Duel
Miguelito must face players like A. H. Moussa or the Algerian midfield. His capacity for individual imbalance will be fundamental for Bolivia to try to surprise.
Last five games for each team
Bolivia: sequence with important playoff victories, including a goal from Miguelito, in addition to mixed results in friendlies. Algeria: good moment with victories in the African qualifiers and consistent preparations.
Guesses
Despite Algeria’s superiority, Miguelito could be the name of the game if Bolivia manages to exploit counterattacks. A tight score or goal from the Bolivian midfielder is not ruled out.
Where to watch live
The Int. Friendly Games will not be broadcast on Brazilian television nor will there be an official online signal. As the game takes place behind closed doors, the public only follows updates on websites, social networks of the teams and news portals. There are no tickets available.
The stadium in Kansas City should have mild weather conditions, with temperatures around 25-30°C. The recent history favors Algeria, but Bolivia is betting on Miguelito’s determination and individual talent to leave a positive mark.