Argentina and Saudi Arabia meet on Tuesday in the opening match of World Cup Group C.
It is the first day of the tournament with four consecutive fixtures, and the fourth meeting between the two teams. Their last duel was a goalless draw in a friendly back in 2012.
Both teams have a fully fit squad to choose from here. Two-time World Cup winners Argentina are overwhelming favourites to win the section, and enter the tournament on a spectacular run, including an unbeaten CONMEBOL qualifying campaign.
To Win To Nil: Argentina
There is a chasm between these two sides. Argentina have a team of world stars, showcasing their talent in Europe’s top leagues. All of the Saudi Arabia squad play their club football in the Saudi Pro League.
The Green Falcons have just two wins in 10 matches.
They have scored just four goals in that period, and have lost to nil in nine of their last 12 World Cup fixtures. It is 11 losses in 16 World Cup matches overall.
Anytime Goalscorer: Lautaro Martinez
Lionel Messi is naturally the favourite in the anytime goal scorer market, but Messi has become more of a playmaker in his post-peak years.
He will be creator-in-chief for Argentina, and Inter’s Lautaro Martinez should be the main beneficiary.
The Bahía Blanca has 21 goals in 40 caps – he is great value at 11/10 to add to that tally on Tuesday.
First Corner: Argentina
This could be the biggest mismatch of the entire group stage on raw talent.
Argentina will completely dominate this match from the first whistle, and will be eyeing an emphatic victory. Saudi Arabia are going to have their work cut out to win the ball.
Much of this match will be played in Saudi Arabia’s final third, with Argentina’s attacking players trying to pick their way through a low block.
An early corner for the favourites is inevitable – they are decent value in this market even at a short price.
All odds are subject to change