Brazil will be playing Argentina in the first semi-final match of Copa America 2019. It has been a common notion in world football that both Brazil and Argentina have failed to do justice to the kind of talent they have in the squad. Playing under severe pressure from fans and media, the two powerful national teams fluff their lines when it matters the most. Fans around the globe have their eyes fixed on their semi-final meeting of Argentina and Brazil, probably the greatest South American rivalry. The two teams have been inconsistent and have not quite hit their highs but surely know how to grind out a result. A look at the players we feel will surely have an impact on the game. Brazil vs Argentina Head to Head Record: Ahead of Copa America 2019 Semi-Final Clash, Here Are Match Results of Last 5 BRA vs ARG Encounters!

Lionel Messi

Argentina’s talisman has endured a frustrating campaign so far in Brazil with just one goal to his name which came from the penalty spot. The leader on the pitch must raise his game when he faces a Brazil side that boasts of a solid defence. Lionel Messi now in the twilight of his association with the national team has yet another opportunity to win a major trophy which cannot be missed.

Lautaro Martinez

The Inter Milan forward has been linked with a move to Barcelona and he sure will have the approval of club captain Lionel Messi who also happens to be the captain of Argentina. Two vital goals in the last two games has made this dynamic forward an important weapon in the Argentine arsenal.

Nicolas Otamendi

The hard-tackling no-nonsense Manchester City defender will have to be rock solid when dealing with fairly persistent Brazil attacks. Although he is known for losing his mind on the pitch in vital times, Nicolas Otamendi in full flow is a difficult player to go past for any attacker.

Gabriel Jesus

In the absence of Neymar, Gabriel Jesus is the leading goal scorer of the team which is quite remarkable for a young player. The Manchester City attacker has an eye for goal with his menacing runs too hot to handle for the opposition defenders. He will start out wide in an unfamiliar role to make room for Roberto Firmino.

Casemiro

Despite a long list of attacking forwards on display from both the teams, the game will be controlled in the midfield. Casemiro, who missed the last game should start and it is the Real Madrid man which makes Brazil tick. He goes about his business with ease and could hurt Argentina by cutting down the supply line to Lionel Messi.

A fairly even game between two strong teams but it is hosts Brazil who have the edge as they have more balance in midfield and defence compared to Argentina.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2019 09:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).