Argentina have won every possible trophy under Scaloni—twice the Copa América and, most importantly, the World Cup in Qatar. There were no issues in qualification or in friendlies. Already at this World Cup, Messi continued to score while his team kept winning. However, despite another goal from Leo against Cape Verde, that team equalized both in regular and extra time. Only at the end, due to an own goal, did the debutant lose 2-3.
Egypt confidently passed qualification, accumulating 26 points in ten qualifying matches. They also reached the semifinals at the Africa Cup of Nations this winter. At the tournament, they managed to progress from the group for the first time at this level, defeating New Zealand and advancing to the playoffs (drawing with Belgium and Iran). There, after a 1-1 draw with Australia, they won on penalties.
The world champions average 3.1 goals scored per match and concede just 0.4. Salah and company have a more modest ratio: 1.2 goals scored and 0.7 conceded per match.
Previous matches: Argentina vs Egypt
The Latin Americans have won both previous meetings.
The title holders are in good form. It is unlikely they will run into trouble again—bet on them with a handicap of “-1 goal” (odds – 1.6).
Argentina vs Egypt: Key Stats and Trends
Argentina have won ten of their last eleven matches
30% of Argentina’s matches end with goals from both teams, with an average total of 3.5 goals per match
Egypt have drawn three of their four tournament matches
50% of Egypt’s matches end with goals from both teams, with an average total of 1.9 goals per match
Argentina vs Egypt: Probable Starting Lineups
Argentina play in a 1-4-2-3-1 formation (possible lineup): Emiliano Martínez – Medina, Romero, Lisandro Martínez, Molina – Fernández, Mac Allister – De Paul, Almada, Messi – Lautaro Martínez. Balerdi will not play, Medina is questionable.
Egypt play in a 1-4-4-2 formation (possible lineup): Shobeir – Karim Hafez, Rabia, El-Hanafi, Hany – Marmoush, Attia, Fathi, Ashour – Zizo, Salah. Abdelmonem and Fatouh are definitely out, and Hafez may also miss the match.
