Socceroos v Argentina tips, odds & value bets – 2022 World Cup

The Socceroos face an almighty task in Al-Rayyan this Sunday morning (6am AEDT) when they tackle Argentina in the 2022 FIFA World Cup round of 16.

Australia have exceeded expectations just by making it this far, not least after losing 4-1 to France in their opening group game.

Consecutive 1-0 victories over Tunisia and a highly regarded Denmark side put Graham Arnold’s men through as the second seed from Group D, and those performances hold the key to this weekend’s test.

After some costly lapses against Les Blues, the Aussies have put together two disciplined displays highlighted by dogged defence, hard running, and efficient execution.

More of the same will be required if the Socceroos — who are massive $17 outsiders with Marantelli Bet — are to trouble this star-studded Argentine outfit.

Following their shock 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia at the start of the tournament, La Albiceleste have righted the ship with 2-0 victories over both Mexico and Poland to advance as the top side from Group C.

Argentina had a whopping 23 shots at goal in their final group game, although they were facing a Polish squad that offered little in response given the Europeans only needed a two-goal defeat or better to progress.

Regardless, the South American giants have an obvious class edge on Australia, and the likes of Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Nicolas Otamendi will be determined to go deep in what will most likely be their last World Cup campaign.

Socceroos vs Argentina match prediction

With the favourites so short in the head-to-head betting, the halftime/fulltime markets are sure to attract some interest. Australia showed against Denmark that they can be resolute in defence against high-quality opposition, and Argentina showed in the group stage that creating a heap of chances doesn’t always lead to a heap of goals. In their three games so far, Lionel Scaloni’s men have managed only one goal before halftime — a 10th-minute penalty against Saudi Arabia — so there is some sense in backing the Aussies to hold firm until the break at least.

Socceroos vs Argentina goalscorer tips

Harry Souttar has been Australia’s standout performer so far at this World Cup. While the 6’6″ centre-half is best known for his stout defence, he is also a noted contributor at the other end of the pitch. Souttar has six goals from 13 international appearances, and his aerial presence could be a big factor if the Socceroos manage to win some set-pieces forward of centre. Argentina have not started a player taller than 6’1″ in this tournament to date, and if they stick with the likes of Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi in defence, they might have their hands full with big Harry. Don’t put the house on it, but Souttar to score at anytime is a nice roughie to consider.

Socceroos vs Argentina same game multi tips

Lautaro Martinez is yet to score a goal at this World Cup, and one feels he will break his duck sooner rather than later. The Inter Milan star came into the tournament with 21 goals from 40 caps, so there is no questioning his output at international level. Combine Martinez to score anytime with the halftime draw and Argentina to win for a $7.50 return at Neds.

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