This Friday, Argentina will face Venezuela in the 17th round of the South American qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. Here’s a betting tip for this match with good chances for success.
Match preview
Argentina has already achieved its goals in the tournament, securing first place in the group and a spot in the 2026 World Cup. Lionel Scaloni’s team remains strong, not losing in their last five matches. At home, Argentina is usually dominant, winning four out of five matches in this qualifying campaign.
In terms of scoring, Argentina leads South America with 28 goals. Although Enzo Fernández is absent, the midfield is still robust, with Messi, Álvarez, and Almada capable of breaking through any defense. Argentina typically does not concede at home, and given Venezuela’s poor away record, a clean-sheet victory seems possible.
Venezuela is fighting hard for a chance to reach the playoffs. A win against Bolivia in June gave them a boost, but a loss to Uruguay kept them from gaining ground. The team shows determination, regularly finding the net, scoring in 7 of their last 8 matches.
However, their away performance remains problematic, as Venezuela has not won in 17 consecutive away qualifiers. Nonetheless, under coach Fernando Batista, the team often avoids heavy defeats, even against strong opponents like Argentina, typically keeping the score competitive. With the visitors highly motivated and potential rotations from the hosts, a big defeat seems unlikely.
Probable lineups
- Argentina: Martínez, Molina, Romero, Medina, Otamendi, Palacios, De Paul, Paredes, Almada, Messi, Álvarez
- Venezuela: Romo, Ángel, Navarro, Rrahmani, Aramburu, Soteldo, Cásseres, Martínez, Pereira, Rondón, Martínez
Match facts & head-to-head
- Venezuela has not won any of their last 17 away World Cup qualifiers.
- Argentina leads South American qualification in scoring with 28 goals.
- In the last six official matches, Venezuela has only lost to Argentina by more than two goals once.
Prediction
Argentina has already qualified for the World Cup and may rotate their squad. Venezuela, in urgent need of points, will likely focus on a tight defense. Despite the difference in skill, a blowout score is unlikely. Our prediction: “Venezuela with a (+2) handicap” at odds of 1.70.
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