Argentina is set to meet Saudi Arabia for the first time in the World Cup, on Messi’s final year in the tournament. Argentina are the favorites to top their group stage given their stars like Lionel Messi. Additionally, they also won two titles in the World Cup already, way back 1978 and 1986. As for Saudi Arabia, they are actually expected to finish the group stage at the fourth spot, or the bottom of the group. This is their motivation to keep on going despite the low expectations of them. Coming into this game, these two teams wants to prove something to the whole World.
Going into this match, Argentina is the better team from their past four matches. Argentina won two of those four matches while the other two remains in draw across all competitions. However, in the World Cup, this will be the first time these two teams meet, so this will be an exciting meeting between these two teams. While Saudi Arabia participates in the World Cup for the sixth time, Argentina is now participating in their 18th. Argentina’s appearance in the World Cup is the third-longest active run next to Brazil and Germany. This match will be on November 22, 2022, at 6:00 PM (GMT+8).
Argentina
Under the leadership of their manager, Argentina have been exceptional, and are actually one of the favorites to win the title. However, it is no longer surprising as they have one of the best players in the World on their squad. During their last match, they managed to have a dominating win against UAE with a score of 5-0. Coming into this match, they are hopping to receive the same results. At the moment, this squad is actually in a 36-match unbeaten streak, so expect them to be phenomenal in the World Cup. After all, this is Messi’s final World Cup, they might get motivation from it, as he is the heart and soul of their team.
For his final World Cup, expect Lionel Messi to pour his hearts out to win the title on his last year. Lisandro Martinez and Exequiel Palacios are both restricted to do some indoor work. However, they are making sure that they will be available in this match.
Saudi Arabia
This is a team who worked really hard just to be able to qualify in the World Cup. In fact, they even topped their qualifying group, and went ahead of Japan in the qualification stage. On their last game, they were defeated by Croatia in a 1-0 loss and are looking to avenge in this game. Actually, this team needs to work out a lot of areas if they want to go far this year. Yes, they can pull a surprise and occasional upset, but it will not be consistent. Their issues need to be addressed, because if not, they should not expect a better campaign this season.
Riyadh Sharahili is doubtful for this game after sustaining muscular problems, throwing his hopes for the World Cup in doubt. As for Hassan Tambakti, he is experiencing discomfort, making him absent for their training, and is doubtful as well.
Prediction:
Argentina (3.0)
Odds: -0.80
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