Argentina head into this World Cup quarter-final as clear favorites. They've rattled off four straight wins, including that 3-2 thriller against Egypt in the round of 16. The defending champions look sharp and Messi sits on eight goals already.
Switzerland arrive with momentum too. They knocked out Colombia on penalties after a goalless draw, then posted wins over Algeria, Canada and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Yet their standout youngster Johan Manzambi remains sidelined with a knee injury and his return for this clash looks doubtful at best.
Granit Xhaka will carry the captain's armband and try to keep things tight in midfield. Argentina have no reported absences so they should field a full-strength side. Past meetings between these two sides offer no clues since nothing recent exists in the records.
This is new territory for Switzerland. They've reached the last eight for the first time since 1954. The winners move on to face either England or Norway in the semis. Argentina have handled every test so far and expect them to handle this one as well.
Messi continues to lead the Golden Boot race. His influence in these knockout games has been decisive. Switzerland will need to limit his space or risk another long night.
Both teams have shown they can score in bunches. Argentina's last four results read 3-2, 3-2, 3-1 and 2-0. Switzerland posted a 4-1 win of their own. A few goals look likely here.
Recommended Bets
Argentina win @1.75 — four straight victories and no injury concerns give them the edge over a Switzerland side missing their in-form attacker.
Over 2.5 goals @2.05 — Argentina's recent matches have featured plenty of goals and Switzerland's 4-1 group win shows they can contribute too.
Lionel Messi anytime goalscorer @1.60 — eight goals already and still the main threat for the defending champions in knockout football.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
