Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign hasn’t been perfect, with points dropped in four games. Uruguay aims to capitalize on this as they face off on Friday, seeking to climb to the top of the table. Despite the absence of Lionel Messi, their top scorer in qualifiers, due to an injury sustained playing for Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, Argentina still boasts significant attacking talent, especially with Julian Alvarez in excellent form.
Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has regained its position as a strong force in South American football. However, they are striving for greater consistency after drawing three of their recent five matches. Their inconsistency is highlighted by their goalscoring record: they scored three against Colombia but only two in the other four games combined. This inconsistency partly reflects the form of striker Darwin Nunez, but Uruguay is still searching for a reliable second attacking option as the World Cup approaches.
To become serious contenders, Uruguay needs to solidify their attacking options, mirroring Argentina’s approach to team identity. Even without Messi, Argentina maintains a clear game plan and possesses players like Alvarez to lead the attack. Coach Lionel Scaloni is also strategically integrating young talents like Nico Paz, ensuring a smooth transition to the next generation while maintaining current success.
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Thursday, March 21
- Location: Estadio Centenario — Montevideo, Uruguay
- Live stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Uruguay +165; Draw +180; Argentina +205
Storylines
Uruguay: Uruguay’s defense is capable of handling Argentina’s attack, but the key question is their own attacking output. When Darwin Nunez is at his best, Uruguay can challenge any team. However, they need more consistent performances from their striker to be considered serious World Cup contenders.
Uruguay Predicted XI: Sergio Rochet, Nahitan Nandez, Ronald Araujo, Jose Gimenez, Marcelo Saracchi, Rodrigo Bentancur, Fede Valverde, Maxi Araujo, Darwin Nunez, Facoundo Pellistri, Rodrigo Aguirre
Argentina: Each match without Messi is a valuable learning experience for Argentina. With a blend of young and experienced players, Argentina has a strong foundation for continued success and is strategically planning for the future. The absence of Lautaro Martinez also presents a challenge, but Argentina has consistently overcome obstacles.
Argentina Predicted XI: Emi Martinez, Nahuel Molenna, Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Nico Paz, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Gonzalez
Prediction
Expect a tight, low-scoring match where defenses dominate. A draw would be a satisfactory result for both teams.
Pick: Uruguay 0, Argentina 0