Uruguay plays against Bolivia on Tuesday. If the Bolivians fail to beat the Uruguayans, Argentina will qualify for the World Cup even if it loses its next match, against Brazil.

Thiago Almada and Julian Alvarez demonstrated the World Cup holders can pose an attacking threat even in the absence of their talisman

Argentina has no shortage of attackers with young Nico Paz making an appearance in the squad and Julian Alvarez in top form for Atletico Madrid but facing a strong Uruguay defense, more pressure will be on the attack, especially with Martinez unavailable.