Quarter Final: Argentina v Belgium 05/07/2014, Brasilia

HEAD TO HEAD:

Argentina Wins 2 Belgium Wins 1 Draws 0

Referee: Nicola Rizzoli (ITA)


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Interesting match up against two highly rated teams. Argentina have been led by Messi and have yet to really click. Nonetheless one has to bear in mind apart from their match against Nigeria they faced teams that played ten behind the ball. Sabella needs to make alterations in midfield and bringing in the fresh Lucas Biglia and Enzo Perez in midfield may just be the ticket as well as the removal of Higuain.

He appears to still be suffering from lack of fitness and sharpness and has helped to blunt Argentina going forward. Belgium will pose a threat down the flanks with de Bruyne and Hazard and Lukaku after his efforts against the US may well retake his starting spot ahead of Origi. The flat performance of their midfield will be cause for concern and Defour may come in to try and keep hold of Messi.

Kompany is not fully fit and di Maria and Messi could exploit both fullbacks particularly if van Buyten is dragged out there. It is close to call but Belgium are likely to be far more open and afford Argentina more chances. However Courtois is head and shoulders above Romero and there is always the chance the numskull drops a clanger.

These sides have met twice at the World Cup. 1982 where the Belgians won 1-0 and in 1986 where Maradona dominated the match scoring two and creating a host of chances. Those of an Argentine persuasion will be hoping Messi does the same but the onus is on his team mates and the coach to improve their movement and speed of passing the ball.

[video=youtube;dIXKJdgZNTY]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dIXKJdgZNTY[/video]​