⚽ World Championship - Qualification - Round 9 Preview

📅 10 Oct 2024

⏰ 22:00 GMT +1

🏟 Estadio Monumental de Maturín (Maturín)

Venezuela face one of their biggest challenges yet as they host reigning world champions Argentina in this crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. The Vinotinto, who have never qualified for a World Cup, are filled with hope as they sit sixth in the CONMEBOL group stage standings. That position would secure a historic World Cup berth, but Venezuela’s form has faltered recently, with no wins in their last four qualifiers (D3, L1). Their defense, however, impressed in a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Uruguay, a team ranked #11 by FIFA.

Argentina, currently ranked #1 in the world, represent an even greater challenge, especially with Lionel Messi expected to return to the lineup. La Albiceleste suffered a rare away defeat to Colombia (2-1) in their last group game, their first away loss in a World Cup qualifier since 2017, but they still lead the standings ahead of this round. Manager Lionel Scaloni will be keen to avoid any further slip-ups, and Argentina’s overall qualifying record is formidable, having conceded only seven goals in their last 19 World Cup qualifiers (W14, D3, L2). Additionally, Argentina haven’t lost to Venezuela in a competitive match since 2011 (W5, D2).

Where to watch Venezuela vs Argentina?

📺 Link to watch Venezuela vs Argentina Live Stream on TV

📋Players to watch:

Salomón Rondón (Venezuela): With three goals and one assist in his last six international appearances, Rondón will be key to Venezuela’s hopes. He’s also in good form at club level, with two goals and an assist in his last four games.
Lionel Messi (Argentina): Messi has played in Argentina’s last eight victories, and his return will bring optimism. He is Argentina’s most-capped player and their all-time top scorer.

⚡️Match Facts:

Venezuela have gone four World Cup qualifiers without a win (D3, L1).
Argentina have conceded just seven goals in their last 19 World Cup qualifying games.
Only one of Argentina’s last eight World Cup qualifiers saw both teams score.

💡 Venezuela vs Argentina Prediction

With Messi’s return, Argentina are likely to dominate this match, but Venezuela’s solid defense in recent games could make this a tighter contest than expected. Argentina’s overall quality and depth should prove too much for Venezuela, especially given their struggles in recent qualifiers. Expect Argentina to win, but Venezuela could make them work for it.

Venezuela vs Argentina Betting Tips

Argentina to win.
Under 2.5 goals.
Both teams NOT to score.

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Venezuela vs Argentina Prediction 10 Oct 2024