Published Jul 8, 5:16am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Jul 8, 5:16am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
Updated Jul 8, 5:16am ET
The reigning world champions remain in the hunt to win a second straight World Cup this summer, but there will be a step up in opposition for Argentina in the quarterfinals, as they take on a talented Switzerland.
Confidence within the Swiss camp will be sky-high after winning their first-ever World Cup penalty shootout. But, can the European nation eliminate the world champions?
|
|
|---|---|
| Argentina | -136 |
| DRAW | +261 |
| Switzerland | +450 |
Lionel Scaloni will be aware that his Argentina side have ridden their luck in the previous two rounds, edging to narrow 3-2 wins against Cape Verde and Egypt.
Not for the first time this summer, the world champions benefited from favorable refereeing decisions in their 3-2 win over Egypt in the round of 16, as the African nation saw a goal controversially disallowed, before they were adamant a penalty should have been awarded in the build-up to Argentina’s winning goal.
Lionel Messi has shone for the holders this summer, scoring his eighth goal of the tournament in the comeback win against Egypt in the previous round.
ALSO SEE: World Cup 2026 Outright Winner Odds, Preview, and Picks
Murat Yakin’s Switzerland will also have their sights set on history this weekend, as the nation bids to reach the semi-finals at the World Cup for the first time.
In fact, they will be playing in the quarterfinals for the first time since 1954. History was made in midweek, as the Swiss overcame Colombia on penalties, marking the first time that they had ever won a shootout.
Granit Xhaka will be crucial for the team in the middle of the park, while Johan Manzambi is likely to be fit enough to return to the starting eleven after scoring three in four World Cup appearances this summer.
Argentina’s luck could run out against a well-organized Switzerland on Saturday evening. The Swiss have an excellent ability on the counterattack, which is a part of the game Argentina struggled with in the previous two rounds. A shock win could be an interesting angle, as the Swiss set up a final four date with either England or Norway.
|
Pick
Switzerland (+450)
|
New Player Bonus
50% up to $1000
|
