For our Big Game Focus today, we take a look at the friendly clash between bitter rivals Brazil and Argentina in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
In essence, this will be a friendly match only by name, given the rivalry that exists between the two South American giants. This enmity dates back to more than a century ago, when Argentina beat Brazil 3-0 in the first meeting between them in 1914. Today, there is a sense of rebuilding about either side, as they both failed to perform at the World Cup in Russia. A win against their arch-nemesis could just be the shot in the arm for the winner to begin to re-establish themselves.
We bring you a comprehensive preview of the match, including betting tips, team news and likely line-ups.
Betting tips
Both Teams to Score has occurred in only one of Brazil’s last seven matches and not at all in any of Argentina’s last three. The last two matches between the two have ended 1-0 and 3-0. Bet on Both Teams to Score No at 1.65 here.
That 3-0 win for Brazil over Argentina in 2016 is the one game out of the last three between the two sides that featured more than 2.5 goals. Under 2.5 Goals has happened in six of Brazil’s last eight matches. Odds for Under 2.5 Goals are 1.65 here.
Apart from the 2-1 defeat by Belgium that ended their World Cup campaign, Brazil actually remain unbeaten under the management of Tite. In fact, they have won five of their last six matches, including the three friendlies they have played since the World Cup. A win for Brazil is valued at 1.55 here.
Team news
Fernandinho, Paulinho, Willian, Thiago Silva and Marcelo are some of the big names missing from Tite’s Brazil squad. The Seleção do have strength in depth though, and can call on the likes of Alex Sandro, Richarlison, Marquinhos and Barcelona’s new impressive midfielder Arthur.
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has not featured for his country since the World Cup and will again be absent here. He will be joined in missing out by the likes Sergio Aguero, Marcos Rojo, Angel Di Maria and Gonzalo Higuaín.
Likely line-ups
Brazil: Alisson; Danilo, Marquinhos, Miranda, Sandro; Casemiro, R. Augusto; Fred; Coutinho, Neymar, Jesus
Argentina: Romero; Kannemann, Otamendi, Funes Mori, Acuna; Paredes, Meza, Battaglia, Lo Celso, Dybala; Icardi