One of the most famous international football rivalries resumes on Thursday night, when Argentina travel to South American neighbours Brazil. The match is of added significance for the hosts as they return for a fixture in Belo Horizonte for the first time since their 7-1 defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup.
Both sides have endured mixed form in 2016. Since winning Olympic gold in August, Brazil have won all four of their World Cup qualifiers since new manager Tite took control of the side. On the other hand, Argentina have struggled and sit in 6th place, outside the playoff spots.
Team News
On loan Manchester City youngster Gabriel Jesus is expected to start for Brazil in an attacking trio, alongside Neymar and Willian. Philippe Coutinho has also forced his way into the squad and is in line for a spot in the starting eleven.
One issue that faces all Argentinian coaches is to fit all of the attacking talent into the same team. Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria are all available for Thursday’s game.
Stats
- Brazil have won four of their last five games.
- Argentina have won just one of their last five games.
- Brazil haven’t beaten Argentina since October 2014.
Match Odds and Predictions