Although Argentina are one of the favorites to win the World Cup, they aren’t quite the favorite to win their group that the other teams are. While the oddsmakers expect France, Germany, Spain, and Brazil to cruise in their groups, the same can’t be said for Argentina. The Argentines are not large favorites to top their group, and there is a sense that this team might be more vulnerable than most in the public think. They will try to dissuade people of that notion when they face Iceland in their opener on Saturday.
The most anticipated sporting event in the world comes around once every four years, so don’t miss any of the 2018 World Cup. This match will take place at Otkritie Arena in Moscow at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday, June 16, 2018. Catch every moment of the match live on FOX.
World Cup Group Stage Betting Odds at BookMaker.eu
Argentina -270
Iceland +901
Draw +354
Over/Under 2 and 2.5
Recent Form
Although Iceland topped a group that included good teams like Turkey, Ukraine, and Croatia, their performances this year have left a lot to be desired. Iceland was hammered 3-0 by Mexico back in March and allowed Peru to romp over them 3-1 a few days later. In more recent action, Iceland was more competitive against Norway last Saturday, but they still lost to a team that will not be playing at the World Cup.
Iceland will face Ghana in their final tune-up this Thursday.Argentina struggled during qualifying, but they eventually pulled out the points they needed in order to make the World Cup. A few months ago, they faced Italy and Spain during the international break with mixed results. Argentina had little trouble with Italy, beating the Italians 2-0 in the first game, but the game with Spain was a different story. Spain clobbered Argentina 6-1, showing that this team has some questions in the back.More recently, Argentina had no problem taking care of Haiti. They were able to light up the Haitians 4-0 with Lionel Messi scoring a hat trick in the process. However, their final tune-up prior to the start of the World Cup was cancelled. Argentina was set to play Israel on Saturday, but the Argentinian federation decided to pull out of the match due to international pressure.
Key Unit
There is a lot of talent on Argentina’s roster, but there are questions in defense. Argentina have a midfield and set of forwards that can contend with any team in the world. However, the loss of goalkeeper Sergio Romero prior to the start of the World Cup and the inexperience of the back line is something to keep an eye on.Romero will be replaced by either Nahuel Guzman or Willy Caballero. Both players are in their 30s and have only started a handful of games with Argentina, so manager Jorge Sampaoli may alternate them. In the back, Marcos Rojo and Nicolas Otamendi are solid options. The other two spots are not as secure though.
Player to Watch
Iceland’s strength is in its experience. This group of players has come up together and almost all of the starters here were also a part of their success at the European Championships.Perhaps the most important player on the roster is captain Aron Gunnarsson. Gunnarsson is a tough midfielder that won’t back off of a challenge. He isn’t a goal scorer, but he is a solid defensive midfielder that understands his role. He will have to play back for much of the time against Argentina and will counter when he gets the chance.
Free Soccer Betting Pick
Iceland is a great story, yet it’s hard to see them have much success against Argentina. Argentina has too much firepower and the pace to keep up with Iceland when they counter. Take Argentina on the three-way line in this one.
World Cup Group Stage Odds: Argentina 2, Iceland 0
BookMaker offers play-by-play betting odds for live sporting events every day! The user-friendly wagering interface on your smartphone provides an easy way to place bets on the go. Mobile betting lines are updated by the minute, so click here to start gambling on thrilling live action at BookMaker Sportsbook!
