Following distressed defeats in their group stages matches, Argentina and Australia somewhat managed to continue their World Cup adventure by making it through knockouts. Now, they will lock horns at Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Saturday.
The Albiceleste dramatically summit group C with two victories of 3 matches, including a shocking defeat in the opening match against Saudi Arabia, while the Socceroos’ defeat against France pushed them to 2nd position in group D with six points.
The South American team didn’t spoil a second recovering from a humiliating defeat in the opening clash against the Arab Nation, defeating hardcore Mexico in the very next game by 2-0 and then targeting plucky Poland with similar scores.
In contrast, the short picture of Australia’s journey in the FIFA World Cup looks not different from its South American counterpart, defeated in the opening match against France by 4-1, but couldn’t lose their passion apart, retaliated back strong, and won the next two games against Tunisia and Denmark.
While maintaining an uneven playing record against Argentina, Australia knows that haven’t won a single match of the last four meetings, but to break the streak, they will need to put on a standout and motivational performance.
Exploring the Winning Odds, Argentina could be comfortable facing a relatively low-seeded Australian squad in the quarter-finals. With an experienced and fluent lineup, the Albiceleste would love to fancy their prospects of winning by displaying an attacking formation. Meanwhile, Socceroo’s ability to showcase startling and courageous moments might surely make them victors.
Argentina possible starting lineup:
E. Martinez; Molina, Otamendi, Romero, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, Fernandez, De Paul; Alvarez, Messi, Di Maria
Australia possible starting lineup:
Ryan; Karacic, Souttar, Rowles, Behich; Mooy; Leckie, Irvine, McGree, Goodwin; Duke
