Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign hasn’t been entirely smooth, dropping points 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 their star player, Lionel Messi, due to an injury sustained while playing for Major League Soccer’s Atlanta United, Argentina still boasts formidable attacking options, especially with Julian Alvarez’s excellent form.
Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has regained its status as a strong force in South American football. However, they are striving for more consistency after drawing three of their recent five matches. Their attacking form has been inconsistent; they scored three goals against Colombia but only two in the other four matches combined. While Darwin Nunez’s form is a factor, Uruguay is still searching for a reliable second attacking threat as the World Cup approaches.
To be considered serious contenders, Uruguay needs to solidify their attacking options. They can learn from their opponents, Argentina, who, even without Messi, maintain a clear game plan and possess talented players like Alvarez. Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, is also strategically integrating young talents like Nico Paz to ensure a strong foundation for the national team’s future, complementing their current success.
How to Watch and Betting Odds
- Date: Thursday, March 21
- Location: Estadio Centenario — Montevideo, Uruguay
- Live stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Uruguay +165; Draw +180; Argentina +205
Match Storylines
Uruguay: Uruguay’s defense is capable of challenging Argentina, but the key question is their ability to create sufficient scoring opportunities. When Darwin Nunez is at his best, Uruguay can compete with any team globally. However, achieving consistent performance from their striker is crucial and will determine their potential as World Cup dark horses.
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 serves as a valuable developmental opportunity for Argentina. With a blend of experienced and young talent, Argentina has a strong chance to extend their dominance in the long term. The absence of Lautaro Martinez in these matches presents an additional challenge, but Argentina has consistently overcome obstacles so far.
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
Match Prediction
Expect a tight, low-scoring game where defenses dominate. A draw would be a satisfactory result for both teams.
Predicted score: Uruguay 0, Argentina 0
