Argentina-Australia is a friendly and will be played on Thursday at 14:00: odds, predictions, statistics, insights
Since the unforgettable night in Lusail, when Messi and his teammates took the Albiceleste to the top of the world for the third time in its history, Argentina has only played two friendlies. Last March it faced two modest selections such as Panama and Curacao, beaten 2-0 and 7-0 respectively. Two matches in which the result mattered to very few.
Lionel Scaloni and his men took the opportunity to receive another hug from their people, still euphoric after their World Cup triumph in Qatar. The protagonist of the double celebration was always him, Leo Messi: the Selección captain scored in both matches, even scoring a hat-trick against Curacao. Argentina wants the Pulce to remain the beacon of the national team in the coming years, despite the fact that the former Barcelona and Psg player has decided to winter in the United States – from July he will wear the Inter Miami jersey – saying goodbye (for the time being) to European football. There will also be him in the two friendlies that the Albiceleste will play between China and Indonesia. The first test that will see the world champions at work is the one against the Socceroos, scheduled at the Workers’ Stadium in Beijing. Australia will take the opportunity to ‘avenge’ (that’s a big word) the defeat suffered during the last World Cup. Argentina prevailed 2-1, with a few too many difficulties, over the selection led by Graham Arnold, thus starting their ride to the final.
After the World Cup the Australians played two matches with Ecuador in the space of a few days, ending with one win each (3-1 and 2-1). Argentina have not lost since that incredible defeat in their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia. And, more generally, it has only conceded three knockouts since June 2019 out of 50 matches played.
The Australians during a training session
The Prediction
Scaloni must do without Lisandro Martinez, Lautaro Martinez, Dybala, Correa and Foyth and will most likely field an experimental line-up. At the centre of the attack will be Giovanni Simeone, between Messi and newcomer Garnacho. Victory does not seem to be in question, but Australia are likely to score at least one goal, as they have always done in their last eight games, between official matches and friendlies.
Argentina-Australia’s likely line-up
- ARGENTINA (4-3-3): E. Martinez; Montiel, Otamendi, Romero, Acuna; De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Mac Allister; Messi, Simeone, Garnacho.
- AUSTRALIA (4-3-3): Ryan; Atkinson, Souttar, Rowles, King; McGree, Metcalfe, Hrustic; Leckie, Maclaren, Borrello.
POSSIBLE RESULT: 3-1
