Croatia v Argentina semi-final best bets & odds – World Cup 2022

This Wednesday morning (AEDT), Croatia will take on Argentina in a World Cup semi-final matchup that projects to be a tight contest. Here are our free betting picks for the clash in Lusail, with odds courtesy of Marantelli Bet.

Argentina vs Croatia

While Croatia are in the midst of another awesome run on the biggest stage, this Argentina team feels destined to reach the final. In what appears to be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup, he is carrying his nation and has been the best player on the field in every game. Argentina’s opponents have had no answer to Messi, and he should dominate once again. While Croatia’s strength is their midfield, they lack the defensive prowess necessary to stop Messi. Argentina just have more talent, and while Croatia can try to play for penalties, we think the South Americans will do enough to win in 90 minutes.

Anytime goalscorer pick: Lionel Messi

Messi has been dominant in Qatar, scoring four goals and setting up a few more. Leo should once again be on the ball a ton in this game and he should have plenty of chances to score. Messi also takes penalties for Argentina, so he has extra value if that situation arises. At +125 with Marantelli Bet, this is a great bet on the best player in the game to make a major impact.

Total goals pick: Over 2.5

While this projects to be a slow game, there is a scenario where it could open up. Croatia have advanced through this tournament with two penalty wins, and they seem content to sit back and test their luck in the shootout. However, if Argentina can score an early goal, Croatia will have to step up and play more attacking than normal. In turn, both teams should see an uptick in opportunities and the over will be in play.