Argentina and Australia are now ready to take on their performance to the next level as they face for the World Cup knockout round. This game is a now-or-never for both teams as the winners enter the quarterfinals, while the losers will go home. Argentina finally secured a spot in the knockout stage, after a dramatic ending for their group stage. Australia on the other hand, are spirited coming into this match. This will be an exciting game between these two teams because the knockout stage was shy of them in the past. They meet on December 4, 2022, at 3:00 AM (GMT+8).
These two teams have not met each other for a while now as their last meeting was 15 years ago. However, this is the very first time they meet in a competition as competitive as the World Cup. From their campaign in the World Cup, Argentina actually never lost in a game in the Round of 16. However, before this qualification, the last time they entered a quarterfinals was in 2014. Moreover, Lionel Messi eyes scoring in the knockout stage as he never scored in a knockout stage match in the World Cup. As for Australia, they finally entered the knockout stage after 16 years. Although they qualified for the last three World Cups, they exited as early as the group stage in those editions. Finally entering the knockout stage, expect a hungry and eager Australians in this game.
Argentina makes Messi’s last World Cup a memorable one
Argentina’s chances in the World Cup almost slipped in their hands after tying Poland after the group stage. Both teams finished with six points but it is all thanks to their goal difference, Argentina went ahead of Poland. They shocked the world when they were defeated by Saudi Arabia in a 2-1 loss. Fortunately, they were able to pick up themselves and win their remaining two matches which both ended in a 1-0 win. They are now eyeing to finally reach the quarterfinals once again as they last did it in 2014. On that run, they even ended up as runners-up to then champions, Germany. Having a chance one again, Argentina will surely make the most of their chances.
Looking at their previous meetings, Argentina may see the need todo some revisions with their line-up. This is a do-or-die game so there is no room for errors, they need to address all their issues before this. Lionel Messi will surely lead his squad, but other should also play their roles in the team. Messi alone cannot make things possible for Argentina, as he also need his teammates.
Australia back in the knockout stage after 16 years
Australia is a revelation this year, especially after they were able to overcome Denmark on their group stage. They also managed to defeat Tunisia in a 1-0 win, giving them more motivation in their campaign. Due to this, the Australians are confident going into this match, but they still have work to do. For the first time since 2006, they finally reached the knockout stage once again. Looking at their squad, they are surely able to overcome Argentina, only if they played in full potential. Additionally, they also need to address their issues in attacks and in defense if they want to win over a mighty Argentina team.
Expect a full squad Australian squad in this match. However, Martin Boyle will not be available here, as he sustained knee injury. Nonetheless, guys like Nathaniel Atkinson, and Fran Karacic may do wonders for Australia.
Prediction:
Argentina (2.0)
Odds: 0.84
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