Argentina is scheduled to play the Netherlands on November 9 at the Lusail Stadium in the quarterfinals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
La Albiceleste’s campaign got off to a shocking start when they lost 1-0 to Saudi Arabia. Since then, they have won three games in a row and are in excellent form going into the quarterfinal match.
On the other hand, the team led by Louis Van Gaal has not lost since September 2021. At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the Oranje are one of the few teams that have never lost.
Although Argentina will begin as the favorite, the Netherlands is no slouch.
In light of this, let’s take a look at three reasons why La Albiceleste might have trouble competing with the Dutch.
#3 Dependence on Lionel Messi too much
Lionel Messi has been a key player for Argentina, scoring three of the seven goals they scored in Qatar.
Additionally, the South American giants have relied heavily on his presence and ability to distribute the ball in risky areas.
Lionel Scaloni’s team may become unstable if the Netherlands is able to deprive Messi of possession rather than solely focusing on man-marking him.
The Netherlands could use Argentina’s lack of diverse, in-form attacking players to their advantage by betting on that.
#2 Argentina’s defense could be exposed by the Netherlands
The Netherlands has scored eight goals in four World Cup games, which is impressive in front of goal.
In contrast, Argentina’s defense has only conceded three goals thus far.
However, La Albiceleste has been up against teams like Poland, Mexico, and Australia, who prefer to play defensive football rather than offensive football.
With an overflow of ability front and center, the Netherlands can emerge and go after Argentina’s protection as opposed to keeping up with their backline and retaining pressure.
A plan like this could make Argentina’s defense vulnerable, allowing them to make mistakes. Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo, both Dutch attackers, could thrive in this circumstance.
#1 Netherlands’ defensive organization could frustrate Argentina
The Netherlands has demonstrated to be a considerable group in guard too, overseeing two clean sheets in four games.
In addition, the Oranje have only given up two goals thus far at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Argentina may have trouble getting past the Netherlands’ backline with defensive players like Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake if the Dutch continue to play solid defense.