Odds provided by Sports Interaction.
Uruguay vs Argentina Odds
Uruguay is a slim favorite here against Argentina with +140 odds. La Albiceleste sits at +210, while a draw is priced at +195. Under 2.5 goals could be an intriguing bet here given the important players missing for Argentina, including Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martinez. We’ll discuss more below.
Uruguay vs Argentina Analysis
Marcelo Bielsa’s men started qualifying in fine fashion, winning four of their first six games but have collected just one victory in their last six. Regardless, they’re still in second with a 5-5-2 record, picking up 20 points from a possible 36. Since Bielsa took over in 2023, they’ve won 12 times, lost four times, and also settled for five draws.
The last World Cup qualifiers break in November was kind to Uruguay, finding a 3-2 victory over a dangerous Colombia side before sharing the spoils with Brazil. And while they’ve had minimal success against Argentina over the years, the Uruguayans did beat them early on in qualifying. They will like their chances again here with numerous key absences for La Albiceleste.
Argentina is still a force to be reckoned with on the international stage and is undoubtedly seen as the giant of South America. They’ve performed quite well in qualifying, compiling an 8-1-3 record, bagging 21 goals while conceding just seven in 12 outings.
By no surprise, Messi has been their leading man in the final third with six goals. Martinez also has netted three times. But, both players aren’t in the squad, which means others will need to step up. Julian Alvarez will surely be a dangerous figure as he continues to flourish at club level with Atletico Madrid. Argentina is a very slim underdog on Friday at soccer betting sites.
Uruguay vs Argentina Team News
Bielsa made the odd decision to select 38 players for his squad, but lots of them won’t see the pitch. Manuel Ugarte, who plies his trade for Manchester United, won’t be able to play Friday due to too many yellow cards. Other than that, Uruguay has a clean bill of health. As for Argentina, they’re not only without Messi and Martinez. Paulo Dybala, Gonzalo Montiel, and Giovani Lo Celso won’t be available, either.
Uruguay vs Argentina Picks
Uruguay have already shown they can beat Argentina and they’ve also taken down Brazil and Colombia on home soil. Messi and Martinez are La Albiceleste’s heartbeat up top and I do think they will struggle without the attacking duo. This is a clear opportunity for the hosts to snatch a huge three points. Take the Uruguay moneyline with confidence.
Pick: Uruguay +140
