2022 World Cup Tips and Predictions: Semi Final 1 - Argentina v Croatia

Summary

Footballing fans around the world are tuning in for the last four teams in Qatar for the World Cup 2022!

Excitement and adoration for these final four countries is well in the fray, even from those countries that were not fortunate enough to make a mark.

These four teams are going to be slighted to feel their fate if they do not make the final, with all the work they have been put through in the past month.

What a tournament this has been, and what a past three weeks we have had.

The sporting world will not be able to see a tournament of this calibre again for another four years, making this one a huge opportunity for the teams involved.

Qatar has had its dramatic storylines and injuries, but no one can take away the fact that there is world-class football being displayed, with a ton of entertainment.

Coming to fruition with some great play to back their spots up in the finals: Morocco, France, Argentina and Croatia will all feel the need to put their heritage and footballing ability on the line.

In this particular article we’ll be discussing the matchup between Lionel Messi and Argentina versus Luka Modric and Croatia.

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Argentina versus Croatia - Tuesday, December 13th

The blue and white will need to show their full support for their team this upcoming Tuesday in a battle between two battle-tested countries.

Argentina has come up big in clutch situations this World Cup and haven’t looked back after a very concerning Saudi Arabia match.

Although they were unbeaten in 21 games before this World Cup, Argentina has shown signs of weaknesses on multiple fronts leading up to the semi-finals.

Mainly on the defensive side, Argentina is weak against stronger, taller teams.

They have tried to emphasize their defensive pressure and getting the ball back on multiple occasions, but sometimes this isn't the case.

The midfield has gotten going, but there is still a ton to be desired when it comes to creativity.

Long balls and passes through the middle of the park have not been a truly shining weapon for the Argentinians.

Lionel Messi and Julian Alvarez have been beacons of light for them on the attacking side, while Emi Martinez had the game of the tournament against Netherlands in penalties.

Look for them to be the side that retains possession most times against Croatia.

Croatia pulled off a huge upset against Brazil this past weekend in Qatar, marking their second straight semi-finals appearance in the biggest tournament in the world.

Star goalkeeper Liakovic has been truly sensational in every sense of the word, making the Croats believe that if they are able to hold on for regulation, there will be opportunities in penalties.

Chiming in when they can, they were able to score a last-minute goal against Brazil in extra time after Neymar seemingly deflated the ship.

Croatia will need to make sure their boots are laced on tightly, as there will be tons of dribbling and small play from Argentina.

They are definitely in this game and will be more than keen to play to their back side more than usual.

Betting Prediction - Under 2.5 on goals and Argentina to win in regulation on stake.com’s sportsbook!