Argentina v Belgium 1X2 prediction and betting tip

Match	Date	Selection	Bet	Odds	Bet now
Argentina v Belgium 1X2 prediction and betting tip World Cup 2014, International	05/07/2014 18:00	full time result	Argentina	2.20	Bet at B
Betting prediction was written by Colin

ARGENTINA V BELGIUM: PREDICTIONS AND BETTING TIPS

A cracking encounter awaits here between Argentina and Belgium in Brasilia with a semi final place awaiting the winners.

ARGENTINA: STORY SO FAR

A 2-1 win over Bosnia opened the Argentina campaign, and though an early own goal gifted them the lead it was a tough evenly fought contest which needed some Messi magic to settle matters. Next up was Iran, but the expected easy Argentine win didn’t materialise as the opposition defended stoutly, and in fact had the better chances. It was that man Messi who again proved the difference though, with a moment of magic in stoppage time to give Argentina a 1-0 win. Already qualified by the last group game, a more fluent looking Argentina beat Nigeria 3-2 with Messi again the main difference with two more goals, though the two conceded gives reason to question the defence.

Switzerland proved dogged last sixteen opponents, defending stoutly and frustrating the Argentine stars to take the game to extra time. It looked like the Swiss game plan was going to be successful in taking the game to penalties until that man Messi again worked his magic, not scoring this time but setting up Di Maria for the crucial winning goal. No one could argue with the result, as the only team trying to win triumphed, but other players need to step up to complement Messi if Argentina are to go all the way.

BELGIUM: STORY SO FAR

The much vaunted Belgians won every group game to top the group, but did not impress everyone with the manner of the wins. First up was Algeria, and after falling behind to a penalty the Belgians struggled to break a well disciplined defence down, before the introduction of Fellaini turned the game. The big man scored within five minutes of coming on and caused mayhem to Algeria. The next game with Russia looked to be petering out to a boring draw before another Belgian sub, this time Origi bagged a late winner. In the final group game the Belgians were already through and a red card for Defour made it tough. Again though the introduction of substitutes had a positive impact, and a late Vertonghen goal meant maximum group points.

It was USA waiting in the last sixteen, and Tim Howard in the USA goal almost single handedly ensured the game remained 0-0 and went into extra time. The Belgians dominated most of the second half, and positive substitutions again proved the key with the introduction of Lukaku turning the game in extra time. The big strong striker set up the opener in the third minute of extra time, before a fine strike of his own put Belgium 2-0 up and seemingly cruising. A USA goal set up a rousing finale, though the Belgians held on for a deserved win.

TEAM NEWS:

Top striker Aguero is back training for Argentina, but unlikely to start, while Belgium have defenders Vanden Borre and Vermaelen doubtful. Midefielder Defour is available again following suspension.

RUN OF PLAY:

Both sides have won every game without really impressing so far, but this is a fascinating contest in which I can see both sides really going at each other. Keeping Messi quiet is the key to Belgium’s chances, but looking at their midfield they could struggle to contain him, though the return of Defour will help maybe. The use of substitutions has been crucial for Belgium, and could prove key for them again, especially if the game is heading for extra time. Argentina certainly need others to help Messi out, with Di Maria a particular culprit of under achievement so far, though his winning goal versus Switzerland could be just the boost he needs to turn things around.

ARGENTINA V BELGIUM: 1X2 BETTING TIPS

Argentina at 2.20(6/5)Bet365 is a tempting enough 1X2 quote to make me part with my cash and get on, and I advise you do the same. You get the feeling the Argies can step up on what they have shown so far, and they have the pedigree of the latter stages of a major competition that the talented Belgians don’t to fall back on. I had Argentina no bigger than even money (1/1) in my ninety minute book, so at 2.20 I have to rate it a value bet with percentage built in. The early kick off time in the Brazil heat will also suit Argentina more, so it is they who can secure a last four spot, and get the result sorted in ninety minutes play.

Get on Argentina with Bet365