Argentina and Lionel Messi continue to compete for football’s top honor, but in a tantalizing round of 16 matchup in Qatar, they will face a tenacious Australian team.
Argentina won their remaining matches against Mexico and Poland to earn a spot in the round of 16, recovering from a poor performance against Saudi Arabia. In order to continue their winning streak and advance in their quest for glory, La Albiceleste would like to defeat Australia.
Lionel Messi would once again be expected to lead Argentina to victory with a spectacular display. Another advantage for Argentina is that they have won all four of their previous meetings with Australia, a streak that coach Lionel Scaloni would like to see continue.
Given the disparity in quality between the two teams, the Australian team would face competition in this match. When the Socceroos advanced from a tough group, they stunned the entire world. Nevertheless, despite the disparity in size, the World Cup in Qatar has already produced some incredible results, and Australia could undoubtedly shock the world by defeating Argentina.
Argentina vs Australia predicted XIs
Argentina XI (4-3-3): E. Martinez; Molina, Otamendi, Romero, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, Fernandez, De Paul; Alvarez, Messi, Di Maria
Australia XI (4-1-4-1): Ryan; Karacic, Souttar, Rowles, Behich; Mooy; Leckie, Irvine, McGree, Goodwin; Duke
