Messi and Co. take on Russia in Moscow
Kick-off : 4:00 PM (Local)
Venue : Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow
The Russians are on right track in terms of preparation for next year’s world cup as they play one of the elite footballing nations in Argentina. It will be a tough test for them.
Argentina have done well to qualify for the world cup but had hiccups in the campaign. If it was not for a Messi hat-trick against Ecuador, Argentina were in danger of not qualifying directly.
It’s a great chance for Sampaoli to figure out the winning combinations in these friendlies. They shouldn’t have any troubles against Russia.
In fact the current Russian side failed to make it even to the knockout stages earlier in the summer in the Confederations cup. They also lost friendlies to Costa Rica and Qatar.
But it should be good game on Saturday as both teams will give their all.
Team news and possible line-ups
Artem Dzyuba is not available for Russia as due to health issues. While Aleksandr Samedov have been dropped from the squad.
As for Argentina, Mauro Icardi, Lucas Biglia, Marcos Acuna and Gabriel Mercado will not be available for Saturday’s game due to injury.
Leo Messi and Sergio Aguero are available and will play against Russia.
Russia XI : Akinfeev, Smolnikov, Kudryashov, Vasin, Dzhikiya, Zhirkov, Glushakov, Dzagoev, Kombarov, Kokorin, Smolov.
Argentina XI : S. Romero, Mascherano, N. Otamendi, Fazio, Insua, Banega, E. Perez, Salvio, Di Maria, S. Aguero, Messi.
Prediction
While it’s not a given that Argentina will win on Saturday but they certainly are the favorites for the game. I expect Argentina to win and the scoreline could be 3-1.
