Argentina's Experience Can Break Swiss Resistance
Argentina have shown why they remain one of the favourites to retain the World Cup, finding ways to win even when not at their very best. Switzerland have impressed with their organisation and defensive discipline, but the holders' quality and experience should prove enough to reach the semi-finals.
Match: Argentina vs Switzerland
League / Competition: World Cup
Our Pick: Argentina to Win
Odds: 1.80
Market: Match Winner
Analyst Confidence: 4/5
Lionel Scaloni's side have had to work hard throughout the knockout stages, edging past both Cape Verde and Egypt in dramatic encounters. While Argentina haven't always been convincing, they continue to deliver when the pressure is highest, with Lionel Messi once again leading by example in the final third.
Switzerland have earned plenty of respect after topping their group and progressing past Colombia on penalties. They are one of the tournament's most disciplined teams, defending well as a unit and making life difficult for every opponent they face. However, breaking down Argentina is another challenge altogether, especially over 90 minutes in a World Cup quarter-final.
Expect Switzerland to stay compact and look to frustrate Argentina, but the holders possess more creativity, greater attacking depth and players who thrive on the biggest stage. In tight knockout matches, moments of individual brilliance often decide the outcome, and Argentina have more match-winners capable of producing them.
Argentina may not have everything their own way, but their patience, experience and quality should be enough to book another place in the World Cup semi-finals.