Photo: Messi and DeBruyne (ESPN)
South American giants and two time World Champions Argentina goes into their quarter final clash with Belgium as slight favourites but Alejandro Sabella’s men have failed to impress and face their toughest test to date. The Argentines have struggled to reproduce the form they showed during qualifications and has so far grind out results that had taken them to the last eight. La Albiceleste has been criticized for being too reliant on captain Lionel Messi with the others failing to carry their weight.
On the other hand, Belgium has looked a very strong team in every department conceding just 2 goals in their 4 games thus far while scoring 6 times. They were very impressive in their Round of 16 fixture against the United States which saw Tim Howard make a world record 16 saves in the match. Marc Wilmots has used his substitutes to great effect as his substitutions have changed the complexion of things in all their games. Wilmots will have Thomas Vermaelen available as the Arsenal club captain is fit enough to feature after recovering from injury.
Wilmots will have Thibaut Courtois in goal who is poised to do battle with Messi again. With Vermaelen’s return, Daniel Van Buyten may be sent to the bench for the Arsenal man to partner Vincent Kompany in central defense. The 28 year old Gunner can also be used at left back which means Jan Vertonghen could also lose his place but Toby Alderweireld should be at right back. After an impressive display against the US it is unlikely Wilmots will make any changes so Vermaelen could remain on the bench
Axel Witsel should be partnered in central midfield with Marouanne Fellaini while the attacking threat should be lead by Kevin De Bruyne supported by star man Eden Hazard and Dries Mertens. Divock Origi and Romelu Lukaku has an equal shot at being in the first eleven but Wilmots may opt for the Lille teenager.
Sergio Romero has impressed in goal for Sabella and Ezequiel Garay should feature in the heart of defense with Federico Fernandez. Marcos Rojo is suspended so Jose Maria Basanta could feature at left back even though Hugo Campagnaro is an option as well. Pablo Zabaleta should retain his place at right back.
The midfield should remain unchanged with Javier Mascherano and Fernando Gago sitting in front of defense. Angel Di Maria should provide the link between midfield and attack while Messi, Gonzalo Higuian and Ezequiel Lavezzi will provide the attacking threat. Sergio Aguero is still not available for Sabella despite returning to light training after a muscular injury.
The Argentines will be hoping to join Brazil in the semis keeping alive the hopes of an Argentina versus Brazil final. However, this will not come easy as Belgium has a lot of belief that they have enough to get the better of Messi and company. These two teams like to attack so the neutrals will be hoping for another open and attacking game that brings goals, entertainment and excitement.
Players to Watch
Argentina – Angel Di Maria, Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano
Belgium – Kevin De Bruyne, Axel Witsel, Eden Hazard
You must be logged in to post a comment Login