Buenos Aires, Aug. 19 -- Newcomers Jose Manuel Lopez and Alan Varela earned their first Argentina call-ups for World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Ecuador.
Lopez, a 24-year-old striker for Palmeiras, has been in impressive form this year with 15 goals and four assists across all competitions for the Brazilian club.
Varela, also 24, has been an integral part of Porto's midfield since his 2023 move from Boca Juniors.
Argentina will host Venezuela in Buenos Aires on September 4 before an away clash against Ecuador in Guayaquil five days later.
The reigning World Cup and Copa America champion leads South America's 10-team qualifying tournament and is already guaranteed a place in football's showpiece next year.
As expected, the...