In what will be a repeat of the semi-final game in the 2014 World Cup, Netherlands will take on Argentina with a spot in the semi-finals up for grabs. Argentina have bounced back superbly after a shock defeat in the first game and have looked on point since.
The Netherlands, on the other hand, have been fairly consistent right through and will be a tough nut to crack on any given day for Lionel Messi and his side. This game promises to be a cracking affair.
FIFA World Cup Netherlands vs Argentina Teams
The Netherlands
There will not be too many big changes for this side in this match against Argentina. They do not have any major injury concerns.
Stefan de Vrij was slightly uncomfortable during training, but reports suggest that he should be fit to take part in this game. Netherlands will be hopeful that their CB trio of Ake, Timber, and Van Dijk keeps firing.
The Netherlands Predicted Starting XI: Noppert; Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Jong, De Roon, Blind; Klaassen; Gakpo, Depay
Argentina
Argentina will be thrilled with the inclusion of Angel di Maria since he should be included in the side post his quadriceps injury. Papu Gomez, who limped off against Australia, could miss this match.
There was a slight injury scare for Rodrigo de Paul, but he has shared a post on Instagram and this could well indicate that he could get a nod to start in this match.
Argentina Predicted Starting XI: Martinez; Molina, Romero, Otamendi, Acuna; Fernandez, De Paul, Mac Allister; Di Maria, Messi, Alvarez
Netherlands vs Argentina Head-to-Head and key numbers
- The Netherlands have a better hed-to-head record over Argentina – they have won four out of the nine matches played between the three sides. Argentina has won just the three games.
- This is the seventh time Argentina and the Netherlands are meeting in the FIFA World Cup.
- The last nine knock-out eliminations of Argentina have come at the hands of European nations since their 1930 final defeat against Uruguay.
Netherlands vs Argentina Fantasy Football Team –
Captain: Lionel Messi
Vice Captain: Cody Gakpo
Goalkeeper: Martinez
Defenders: Molina, Van Dijk, Romero, Dumfries
Midfielders: De Jong, De Paul, Gakpo
Forwards: Alvarez, Messi, Depay
Netherlands vs Argentina: Live streaming, details
Kick-off date: Saturday, December 10
Kick-off time: 12:30 AM IST
Venue: Lusail Stadium
Live Telecast: Sports18 SD/HD
Live streaming: JioCinema (App & Website)
Netherlands vs Argentina Prediction
Led by Lionel Messi, Argentina seem to be peaking at the right time. They are the favourites in this match, but Netherlands have the side to challenge them. We expect Argentina to clip this match 2-0.
