Today's FIFA World Cup Predictions (18/12/22)
See bellow for our predictions for today's 2022 FIFA World Cup matches!
ARGENTINA VS FRANCE
It seems a long time ago now since Argentina fell to a stunning 1-2 defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia in their opening game of the group stage at Lusail Stadium, one of the biggest shocks in FIFA World Cup history which left them on the brink of elimination. Fast forward 26 days and Argentina will step out at the same venue in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final against reigning champions France, with both teams battling to become only the fourth nation to win three FIFA World Cup titles. Les Bleus come into the final as the joint-highest scorers in the competition, whilst Argentina have netted at least once in every game they have played across the tournament so far. However, as you would expect in a big final, both are likely to play with an air of caution and defensive stability will surely be prioritised as they each settle into the contest, knowing the importance of scoring the first goal.
Argentina and France can each call upon their own match-winning superstars in Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe, but the supporting cast are world class in their own right. It’s very important to note the sickness bug which will have surely had an adverse effect on France’s preparation ahead of this final and could take its toll on Didier Deschamps’ men from a physical perspective the longer this game goes on. Against an opponent of Argentina’s quality, such minor details can prove ever so crucial.
Whilst France are the defending champions and knows what it takes to get over the line in such a big match, you can’t help but feel that this particular World Cup is written in the stars for Argentina and specifically Lionel Messi. He has been in mesmerising form all tournament long and another standout performance from him here may well be the difference between the two teams. Their Copa America triumph in 2021 is proof that this Argentina squad can jump the psychological hurdle of winning a major tournament final and backing them to lift the 2022 FIFA World Cup has to be favoured, whether it be on 90 minutes, extra time or on penalties.
TIP: ARGENTINA TO LIFT THE TROPHY
