Julián Álvarez Shines with Goal, Inspires Hope for World Cup

On March 31, 2026, Julián Álvarez was a standout in Argentina’s friendly against Zambia at La Bombonera. Julián Álvarez Shines with Goal, Inspires Hope for World Cup.

Match performance

Álvarez opened the scoring four minutes into the game. The goal followed a precise assist from Lionel Messi.

He pressed high and moved across the front to free space near the medialuna. At 30 minutes, he chased back to help Cuti Romero and Nicolás Otamendi recover possession.

Before halftime, he featured in the build-up for Messi’s 116th international goal. In the second half he combined well with Thiago Almada and Messi until leaving at the 68th minute.

Club form and season figures

At Atlético, Álvarez has regained importance after a turbulent first half of the season. Transfer rumors linked him to Barcelona earlier in the campaign.

This European season he has scored 17 goals across 44 appearances. He also helped Atlético secure passage to the quarterfinals for the Cholo Simeone side.

National team standing and milestones

Álvarez debuted for Argentina on June 28, 2021. With his goal against Zambia he reached 14 international goals.

That strike moved him past Carlos Tevez into 21st place on Argentina’s scoring chart. He now shares that spot with Marcelo Gallardo and Omar Corbatta.

His spot for the upcoming World Cup appears secure. Lautaro Martínez missed the FIFA window with a muscle injury, while José López looks likely to benefit from Panichelli’s serious injury.

This friendly was Argentina’s last home match before the World Cup. Two additional warm-up fixtures remain days before the squad departs.

Filmogaz.com will continue to follow the team’s preparations and individual player form ahead of the tournament.