Prediction: Poland vs Argentina

Prediction: Argentina win

Best Odds: 8/17

Bookmaker: 888sport

The FIFA World Cup is finally onto its last set of group stage games as the tournament continues through a whirlwind of drama. There’s a whole lot up for grabs and that’s especially true in Group C, with all four nations being in with a chance of qualifying for the knockout stage. Two of them, Poland and Argentina, will collide in Qatar tomorrow night in what has the potential to be an all-time classic.

Poland

The potential of Poland’s supposed golden generation has been there for all to see but they haven’t even come close to doing anything with it. In fact, there’s an argument to be made that it’s been wasted – but this World Cup could change all of that. They are top of the table with two games gone and a win here, or even a point, would serve as a huge statement heading into the last 16.

Team News

Poland have a fully fit squad to choose from as they prepare for this crunch fixture, with Lewandowski likely leading the line.

Argentina

Argentina could well be dragged kicking and screaming through to the final but in equal measure, they could also fall out at the group stage. That’s the weird and wonderful nature of the FIFA World Cup and it’s on full display here with a country that has a truly incredible pedigree on the world stage. If they win here, and do so emphatically, it’ll do absolute wonders for their confidence.

Team News

Paredes is being tipped for a return but in terms of injuries or suspensions, the gaffer has nothing to worry about.

Factors to Consider

• Poland are 1st in Group C whereas Argentina are 2nd.
• Poland have won one and drawn one of their World Cup games.
• Argentina have won one and lost one of their World Cup games.
• Poland have scored two goals and conceded zero so far in the tournament.
• Argentina have scored three goals and conceded two so far in the tournament.

Conclusion

We expect to see Poland be quite conservative, attempting to hit Argentina on the counter – especially given the success that the Saudis were able to have. The favourites, meanwhile, are better off biding their time, as they were able to do against Mexico. Messi can’t pull them out of the fire every time but we think he will from the spot, handing them a 1-0 win and a place in the last 16.

Prediction: Argentina win

Best Odds: 8/17

Bookmaker: 888sport