Lionel Messi will have the perfect opportunity to respond following Inter Miami’s exit in the MLS playoffs, as he leads Argentina into battle against Paraguay on Thursday.
The reigning world champions have started the qualifying schedule in excellent form, winning seven of their opening ten. Argentina have also won three of their last five, and are the highest scorers in South American qualification.
Paraguay come into this round in encouraging form after going four without a defeat. They have recorded wins in two of their last three, and a second straight success on Thursday could see them move into the top five.
Odds
Argentina will be an odds-on chance to record victory away from home on Thursday. Paraguay will be the outsiders in the betting at +455.
| Match Result | Odds |
|---|---|
| Paraguay | +455 |
| Draw | +237 |
| Argentina | -134 |
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Argentina Unbeaten in Last Five Against Paraguay
| Total | Paraguay | Argentina | Draws | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Games | 17 | 3 | 7 | 7 |
| World Cup Qualifying Games | 9 | 2 | 3 | 4 |
| Goals | 40 | 14 | 26 |
Argentina boast an excellent recent record against Paraguay, having avoided defeat in the last five. However, their only wins over that period have been achieved in 2021 and 2023.
Interestingly, Paraguay have avoided defeat in five of the last seven meetings between the sides, which includes a 0-0 draw in the latest World Cup qualifier between the nations.
🚨⚽ TIP: Under 2.0 Goals @ -111
Paraguay Team News
The home nation will have an aging defensive line this week, with Gustavo Gomez set to lead out his nation, winning his 78th cap in the process.
Miguel Almiron will be the key player for the hosts in the final third, while Angel Romero is expected to lead the line.
Possible Lineup
Roberto Junior Fernandez (GK); Juan Caceres, Gustavo Gomez, Omar Alderete, Junior Alonso, Andres Cubas, Diego Gomez, Miguel Almiron, Julio Enciso, Ramon Sosa, Antonio Sanabria
Argentina Team News
Once again, Argentina’s set up will be shaped around Lionel Messi, with the Inter Miami star winning his 190th cap on Thursday.
Giovani Lo Celso and Nico Gonzalez have been recalled, while Enzo Barrenechea could be in line for his first national team appearance.
Possible Lineup
Emi Martinez (GK); Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez
Paraguay vs. Argentina Prediction
The reigning world champions have bounced back to form after suffering a shock defeat by taking four points from their last two matches.
Paraguay has the attacking quality to pose questions on Thursday, but the preference is for an Argentina win.
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Pick
Argentina (-134)
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