Argentina have made it to the World Cup final and are preparing to take on a strong France side, albeit with several missing players according to L’Equipe. See Last Word on Football’s Argentina predicted lineup and analysis as to why those players are the best options for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Argentina Predicted Lineup for the World Cup Final
How Have Argentina Lined Up?
Argentina have changed throughout the tournament, gradually evolving into the 4-4-2 shape we have seen in the late stages of the tournament. With Emiliano Martinez at the back, the back line has the confidence to attack using wide players such as Nahuel Molina and Marcos Acuna. Since the early poor results, Lionel Scaloni has taken to packing out the midfield, using four relatively central options such as Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister. Lionel Messi plays in a relatively free role, with Julian Alvarez playing as a left striker.
Argentina’s Tactics in Response to France
The Argentinian coaches approach this match with a simple question. Neutralise Kylian Mbappe, or treat him as a normal player? Lionel Scaloni could look to avoid this question and use his attacking tendencies to their advantage.
Theo Hernandez is a naturally attacking wing-back, and Mbappe isn’t quite renowned for dropping back and pressing opponents. This high line on the left-hand side opens up the perfect opportunity for Messi to drift into the areas highlighted in light blue and cause a significant issue. Meanwhile, centre-backs will naturally drift across to respond to this threat. Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez will have perfect opportunities to make darting runs behind their respective centre-backs.
Defensively, Argentina have a fairly strong structure. As Rodrigo De Paul is coming into his element later in the tournament, both Enzo Fernandez and Leandro Paredes are excellent defensive players. They should have more than enough structure to deal with a French counter.
Martinez or Alvarez?
The question of Lautaro Martinez or Julian Alvarez is one that is sure to weigh heavy on the head of Lionel Scaloni, but if you look at the statistics there isn’t really a question to answer.
The data shows that Julian Alvarez is what the Argentinians need if they want a reliable finisher at the top of the pitch. Of the two squads, he has the most goals per 90 of anyone on either side and is in a cluster of top talent including Kylian Mbappe, Lionel Messi and Olivier Giroud. Whilst Lautaro Martinez has a lot of experience in big matches, his performances just haven’t kept up in this World Cup.
Argentina Injuries and Suspensions
Both Marcos Acuna and Gonzalo Montiel return from suspensions for this match, whilst Papu Gomez and Lautaro Martinez have returned from injury. Although Lionel Messi missed training on Thursday, there is no doubt he will be battling for a place on the pitch.
Argentina Predicted Lineup
- Emiliano Martinez
- Nahuel Molina
- Cristian Romero
- Nicolas Otamendi
- Marcos Acuna
- Rodrigo De Paul
- Leandro Paredes
- Enzo Fernandez
- Alexis Mac Allister
- Lionel Messi
- Julian Alvarez
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