Argentina v Croatia Preview

This is set up to be a cracker between two technically gifted sides, both looking to progress to the latter stages of the World Cup. If Messi scores his penalty and Argentina had scraped through against Iceland, no one could have had any complaints with the result.

Argentina had 27 shots on goal in that game, but only Sergio Aguero found the back of the net from their 7 attempts that hit the target. Iceland were set up to defend, denied Argentina any space and executed their game plan expertly. For me though the game against Croatia will be completely different and it will be fascinating to see how Croatia approach the game.

Although Croatia comfortably beat a poor Nigeria side, the thought of having to beat Iceland in their final game to qualify will be something they will want to avoid. They have the players to cause Argentina problems, Modric, Perisic, Rakitic all top performers but its whether they will get enough of the ball to inflict some damage.

I don’t think they can sit back against Argentina, Iceland had a game plan and have been playing that way for years. Croatia do not have that structure and have a slightly ageing defence, that at times are not that mobile. For me I think that Argentina will exploit this weakness but it should make for an entertaining game.

If Argentina get an early goal it should be a very open game, defensively you don’t have the stalwarts of yesteryear like Zanetti or Ayala to manage the game. Otamendi, yes a Premier League winner but he too has his frailties and the keeper position is also a concern for me.

All in all it bodes for a very open game with lots of goals in my opinion and with the market for Both Teams To Score being around ‘EVENS’ with William Hill that seems a great shout.

If you are looking for a slightly different angle, both sides are renowned for being a little bit feisty. Especially if Argentina fall behind i would see the bookings market something to get involved in. Dejan Lovren at 7/2 and Javier Mascherano at around 2/1 with UNIBET could be two of your top culprits. If you don’t want to be too specific Over 3.5 Cards at around ‘EVENS’ might just be the best shout.

This game now becomes a must win for Argentina if they want to secure 1st place in Group D. Will Messi have something to say about the result, can Croatia secure qualification tonight? It should be a great spectacle whatever the outcome and make sure you take advantage of the great sign up offer available at UNIBET if you haven’t got an account there already.

Good luck with your selections