Written by Damien Kayat for @Hollywoodbets.
Nigeria vs Argentina | Wednesday 25 June | Estadio Beira-Rio, Porto Alegre | 18:00
Argentina’s march into the next round has been almost completely bereft of the expected fanfare. Lionel Messi’s singular genius has been the one shining light for an Argentine side failing to capitalise on the South American commotion. Nigeria’s controversial victory over Bosnia-Herzegovina has had a seemingly buoyant effect on the entire African continent at this year’s World Cup. Peter Odemwingie’s first half strike has left Nigeria in touching distance of a landmark Round of 16 appearance. Lionel Messi’s coming of age at the World Cup has been the biggest talking point in this lopsided group, and I expect Messi’s form to reverberate throughout his underperforming side.
To Win (90mins)
Nigeria 57/10
Draw 26/10
Argentina 11/20
Nigeria
Stephen Keshi’s side were fortunate to win against a Bosnia-Herzegovina unit whom generally dictated the game. I felt that Emenike’s bulldozing run was perfectly legitimate and really personified what was a powerful performance by the burly striker. Victor Moses was extremely disappointing in the first game and Odemwingie’s goal will almost surely see the Chelsea striker relegated to the bench again. Babatunde will offer a far more pragmatic option for a Nigerian side eager to retain possession for larger periods of the game.
Onazi and Mikel will play in the sitting roles, aiming to protect a back four consisting of veteran Joseph Yobo and rookie Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo. Godfrey Oboabona’s continued absence may be felt in this important encounter. I just can’t see this Nigerian side coping with a talented Argentine side desperate to prove their pre-tournament billing. Vincent Enyeama will need to have an excellent game to keep the likes of Di Maria and Higuain at bay, in a game that they fortunately need not win in order to advance.
Argentina
Argentina can count themselves extremely fortunate that they survived a late surge from a spirited Iranian outfit. The totemic figure of Messi bailed them out in typical fashion, which has only served to cast further doubt over the World Cup aspirations of the three times World Champions. This may be a chance to rest Messi and Aguero, affording Argentina the luxury of experimenting with a 4-3-3 system that saved them against Bosnia-Herzegovina. Di Maria and Lavezzi will probably offer the pace in wide positions while Higuain gets the nod up front.
Nigeria’s midfield work-rate will necessitate strong performances from Fernandez and Gago. Perhaps it would be wise for Alejandro Sabella to leave Messi on the bench, just to see how dependant Argentina is on the eternal wunderkind of world football. Either way, Argentina will no doubt be emboldened by their last-gasp win against Iran and will be eager to lay their marker down at this year’s tournament. Argentina have no fresh injury concerns in their side and will be hoping to seal the deal in emphatic fashion on Wednesday.
VERDICT: Argentina (-1) 27/20
Nigeria will feel the force of a rejuvenated Argentine side fighting for credibility in a saturated World Cup contender list. I think that the Africans have probably done enough to qualify already, with a talented Bosnia-Herzegovina side eager to prove themselves against the dark horses Iran. Whether Messi starts or not, Argentina cannot perform as poorly as they did against Iran, and I expect them to close out the group with consummate ease.
The man knows his football, but even he gets it wrong from time to time. Feel free to share your view below.
