Argentina’s World Cup qualifying campaign hasn’t been perfect, dropping points in four games. Uruguay will aim to add to that when they meet on Friday, hoping to top the table. Despite the absence of leading scorer Lionel Messi due to injury, Argentina still boasts strong attacking options, including Julian Alvarez.
Under coach Marcelo Bielsa, Uruguay has become a strong South American team again but needs more consistency after drawing three of their last five matches. Their scoring has been inconsistent, with more goals against Colombia (three) than in their other four games combined (two). While Darwin Nunez is a key player, Uruguay needs to find another consistent attacking threat as the World Cup approaches.
To become serious contenders, Uruguay needs to develop a stronger team identity, similar to Argentina. Even without Messi, Argentina has a clear plan and talented players like Alvarez. Coach Lionel Scaloni is also developing young players like Nico Paz to ensure a strong future for the national team.
How to Watch and Odds
- Date: Thursday, March 21
- Location: Estadio Centenario — Montevideo, Uruguay
- Live stream: Fanatiz
- Odds: Uruguay +165; Draw +180; Argentina +205
Storylines
Uruguay: Uruguay’s defense can handle Argentina, but can they create enough scoring chances? When Darwin Nunez is in top form, Uruguay can compete with any team. Consistency from their striker will be crucial for their World Cup ambitions.
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: Every game without Messi helps Argentina grow. With young talent in the squad, they can extend their dominance and are planning for the future. The absence of Lautaro Martinez will be another test, but Argentina has overcome challenges 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
Prediction
Expect a low-scoring, defensive game, with a draw being a reasonable outcome for both teams. Pick: Uruguay 0, Argentina 0
