Argentina v Belgium odds, free bets from World Cup
Latest Argentina v Belgium odds, plus World Cup free bets from the quarter finals in Brazil.
Neither Argentina nor Belgium have reached their potential at the 2014 World Cup, however they meet for a place in the last four.
Argentina’s attack was once again blunted in their second round tie with Switzerland, with Angel Di Maria scoring a late extra-time winner.
Switzerland kept Alejandro Sabella’s side at bay for the 118 minutes and probably had the best chance of the game at 0-0.
With penalties looming, Lionel Messi broke with the ball, before finding Di Maria who scored the game’s only goal.
Belgium put in their best performance of the competition to date in beating the United States in extra-time.
Only Tim Howard denied Belgium a victory in normal time, with the Everton keeper making an incredible 16 saves to keep the opposition at bay.
The introduction of Romelu Lukaku for extra-time changed the game, as he assisted Kevin de Bruyne before adding a goal of his own.
Julian Green pulled one back for America, who nearly forced penalties, however Clint Dempsey couldn’t convert.
Diego Maradona scored both goals in the most recent meeting between the two, as he inspired Argentina to the 1986 World Cup final.
Belgium did beat the then World Cup holders Argentina 1-0 in the 1982 World Cup, in the pair’s first meeting.
Argentine players who would miss semi-final if booked: Ezequiel Lavezzi and Angel Di Maria Belgian players who would miss semi-final if booked: Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld, Alex Witsel, Mousa Dembele and Vincent Kompany
Team news Argentina will be without the suspended Marcos Rojo for the quarter-final, after his second yellow of the competition against Switzerland.
Jose Basanta replaced Rojo during the Switzerland match and is likely to take his place for Saturday’s fixture.
Sergio Aguero missed the second round tie and even if he is fit to return, may find himself on the substitute’s bench.
After his impressive cameo off the bench, Lukaku will be hopeful of returning the starting XI.
Lille forward Divock Origi took Lukaku’s place on Tuesday evening, however after struggling Marc Wilmots may change it around again.
Mousa Dembele may come into the midfield, with a shift to 4-3-3 from 4-2-3-1 likely, meaning Dries Mertens will miss out.
Argentina (4-3-3): Romero, Zabaleta, Fernandez, Garay, Basanta, Mascherano, Gago, Di Maria, Lavezzi, Messi, Higuain Belgium (4-3-3): Courtois, Alderweireld, Kompany, Van Buyten, Vertonghen, Witsel, Dembele, Fellaini, Hazard, Lukaku, de Bruyne
