Tomás Aranda’s Argentina debut applauded by De Paul and praised by Scaloni | OneFootball

Tomás Aranda enjoyed a memorable senior Argentina debut in a 2-0 friendly win over Honduras, part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Argentina were in control when Lionel Scaloni turned to his bench. Aranda, wearing number 32, replaced Exequiel Palacios in the 81st minute and came on alongside fellow Boca Juniors academy product Nicolás Capaldo. According to LaNumer12.com.ar, Scaloni later praised the teenager.

He played nine minutes and looked assured, busy and eager to link play among senior stars. Early on he tried his luck from outside the box, an assertive effort that drew warm applause from Rodrigo De Paul.

In possession he was tidy in the opposition half, completing nine passes from nine attempts. Overall he found team-mates with 10 of 11 passes, a 91% success rate, and delivered one accurate cross from one.

In his own half he completed one pass from two for 50%, rounding off a promising bow. Scaloni highlighted his street football instincts, his desire to take the ball and the calm he showed, even joking that he asked him to ditch his chewing gum.

The head coach added that Aranda is relaxed and comfortable at this level and simply needs time.

Source: LaNumer12.com.ar