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CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying has started again and Lionel Messi is back in the Argentina squad for the first time since the Copa America. Messi injured his ankle in the final of that match against Colombia, but now with a new trophy in hand, the world’s top team will be looking to maintain their form. Entering this window, Argentina maintains a slim two-point lead at the top of the WCQ table heading into matches against Venezuela and Bolivia. For La Vinotinto, they are sixth in the table, only beating Brazil on goal difference. A strong defense keeps them afloat, but goals are needed.
Here are our storylines, how to watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Thursday, Oct. | Time: 5:00 PM ET
- Location: Estadio Monumental de Maturin — Maturín, Venezuela
- Live stream: Fanatic
- Chances: Venezuela +625; Sign +305; Argentina -210
Storylines
Venezuela: With three draws in the last five matches, Venezuela will want to turn these into wins. It’s easier said than done against Argentina, but there are reasons for Venezuela to have confidence in itself. Having just drawn Uruguay at home, Venezuela has allowed just five goals in their last five games. Four of them were at altitude in Bolivia and the other came up against Canada in the United States. Defensively, this is a team that is difficult to unlock for anyone in the world, even Argentina.
Argentina: It’s rare for Argentina to have to bounce back from losses, but the ability to do so with Messi back in the lineup should make things easier. The team has become healthier and team defense will always be a challenge for any team, but the appeal that Messi’s presence has is enormous. Not only can he create his own chances, but creating more space for his teammates leads to a free-flowing attack that should lead Argentina to victory.
Prediction
Messi will find the back of the net as the defense provides enough protection to make a narrow win look easy. Choose: Venezuela 0, Argentina 2