Argentina will take on Uruguay in a friendly match at Bloomfield Stadium in Tel Aviv, Israel. This will be the 198th meeting between the South American rivals, Albiceleste currently lead the head to head record between the teams (with 89 wins) and have come out on top more often in the recent matches. The sides also contested the very first FIFA World Cup final. Argentina in their last match, made a statement of intent with a victory over arch-rivals Brazil. Albiceleste have not lost a single game since their Copa America exit earlier this year and will look to carry forward this momentum against Uruguay. Both teams have players who can change the course of the game in an instant, so we take a look at some key players from both the teams. Lionel Messi Enjoying Fun Time With Paulo Dybala After Sensational Argentina Return (See Pic).
Lionel Scaloni has formed a formidable team, full of hardworking players with Lionel Messi being their driving force behind them. On the other hand, Uruguay have also been in good form since their shock Copa America exit in semi-finals against Peru. Just like Albiceleste, Uruguay are also undefeated since Copa America and will be looking to continue this form against a jubilant Argentina. Oscar Tabarez will be without key players like Jonathan Rodriguez, Darwin Nunez and Atletico Madrid defender Jose Gimenez who are all out injured. Before this friendly match, we take a look at some of the players from both the teams who can be influential for their respective sides. Goals of the Week: From Lionel Messi vs Brazil to Cristiano Ronaldo vs Lithuania, Here’s the Best of Football Goals.
Lionel Messi
The Barcelona Captain returned for Argentina in their last match against Brazil after a three-month suspension. The Argentine put on a masterclass against the Brazilians as he scored the only goal of the match. He also created a number of chances for his side but Albiceleste were unable to increase their lead. Leo Messi will be eager to produce something similar against Uruguay as well.
Nicolas Tagliafico
The defender has been one of the most important players for the Albiceleste under coach Scaloni. The Ajax player provides much-needed balance in their defense and is also very threatening while moving forward. He will again have the responsibility to link up with Leo Messi to open up the Uruguay backline.
Diego Godin
The Inter Milan defender is one of the most experienced players in the La Celeste squad and will also be one of the busiest ones in the match. Former Atletico Madrid skipper will have the responsibility to keep the Argentina attackers like Leo Messi, Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala in check for the entire game.
Luis Suarez
The Barcelona forward returned to the Uruguay squad against Hungary after missing their last four friendly matches. Luis Suarez played for 45 minutes and assisted the opening goal which was scored by Brian Rodriguez. The forward will look to pressurize the new-look Argentina defense and lead his team to a victory.
Argentina have an upper hand in recent encounters between the sides and will be hoping to continue that run in this match as well. Both the teams are coming into this game with wins, as Argentina defeated arch-rivals Brazil while Uruguay edged past Hungary 2-1. Therefore this match will be a test of character for both sides, despite being a friendly, it is all set to be a fiercely contested game.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 18, 2019 04:58 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).