Lionel Messi and Argentina continue their march to the World Cup against Croatia, an incredibly stubborn side that primarily works slowly and methodically. See Last Word on Football’s Argentina predicted lineup for the match against Croatia as the greatest player of all time looks to add to his trophy cabinet.
Argentina Predicted Lineup vs Croatia
How Argentina Have Lined-up Recently
Argentina’s structure has varied throughout the tournament whilst tending towards a 4-3-3. Emiliano Martinez starts in goal with Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Romero in front of him. Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Tagliafico start as wing-backs.
Read More: Argentina vs Croatia Predictions and Best Odds for World Cup Semi-Final
The South Americans had a major midfield shift as the tournament went on, seeing Enzo Fernandez grasping the starting berth in holding midfield. Rodrigo De Paul plays as something of an enforcer, whilst Alexis Mac Allister provides some creativity alongside him. Lionel Messi starts up front in a free role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez alongside him.
Argentina Recent Form and Tactics
After a fairly dour start to the tournament, Argentina have been extremely consistent. A loss to Saudi Arabia led to wins over Mexico and Poland before beating Australia in the round of sixteen. The Netherlands provided the toughest challenge so far, taking their semi-final to penalties.
Read More: Analysing Argentina’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Lionel Scaloni’s major tactical evolution in this tournament was the transition from a 4-4-2 into a 4-3-3. Adding a third man to the centre of the pitch, being Enzo Fernandez, provides Argentina with vastly more control over the match. This has given Lionel Messi the freedom to create without the entire side worrying about De Paul and Mac Allister being overrun by their opponents, as happened against Saudi Arabia.
Argentina Injuries to Consider
Injuries are not a major struggle for Argentina, but suspensions with be. La Albiceleste are without Marcos Acuna and Gonzalo Montiel, both of whom picked up suspensions after an incredible tense and fractious match against the Netherlands. Papu Gomez is something of a doubt for Argentina, but wasn’t likely to start the match in any case.
Read More: Where to Watch Argentina vs Croatia
Argentina Predicted Lineup
The Argentina predicted lineup is as follows, with the front three playing a relatively loose style of football with a greater degree of flexibility:
Read More: Croatia Predicted Lineup vs Argentina
Current Odds: Argentina vs Croatia
Argentina are favourites at 7/8, with Croatia the outsiders at 4/1.
Last Word on Football recognise Qatar’s human rights abuses and instances of corruption taking place throughout the nation and in the background of the World Cup. Learn more about some of the issues surrounding the World Cup here.
