FIFA World Cup 2022 – Argentina vs Australia, Round of 16, match preview, predicted lineups
Argentina play Australia on Saturday in Round of 16 FIFA World Cup 2022 Qatar as the tournament moves ahead. Argentina go into this game as the favourites.
Kick-off : 10:00 PM (Local)
Venue : Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan
Two-time world champions Argentina are looking for their first ever world title with Leo Messi. After their shock upset in the group stage they willl be mindful of the Australia challenge and will aim to be at their best. They will look to play heir brand of football.
La Albiceleste will require their defenders to follow successful templates. And at the attacking front be as ever threatening with flair.
Manager Lionel Scaloni may go with a 4-4-2 system on Saturday.
On the other hand, Australia themselves will be very happy with the way they responded to their opening day loss having overcome Tunisia and Denmark. They will look to go all the way.
The Socceroos have shown defensive rigidity in their last two games and know how to defend, which they will require. In terms of attack they also know how to get the job done and will need it.
Aussies will likely line up in a 4-4-2 formation.
Team news and possible lineups
Keanu Baccus is available for Australia for the weekend game and will likely play.
For the Argentinians, Enzo Fernandez and Julian Alvarez are both available and likely play.
Argentina XI : E. Martinez, Molina, Otamendi, Romero, Tagliafico, Mac Allister, Fernandez, De Paul, Alvarez, Messi, Di Maria.
Australia XI : Ryan, Karacic, Souttar, Rowles, Behich, Mooy, Leckie, Irvine, McGree, Goodwin, Duke.
Prediction
Should be a good game this one given both teams will to progress but in the end I think Argentina have enough qualities to cause an upset and they should go through with a 2-0 win.
