Final six World Cup spots on the line in playoffs
What to know about the final six spots up for grabs in the FIFA World Cup playoffs
Lionel Messi and reigning World Cup champion Argentina hosts Zambia in Buenos Aires in an international friendly on Tuesday.
In their last match, La Albiceleste squeezed out a narrow 2-1 victory over Mauritania, pushing their winning streak to four matches.
Despite the win, there were causes for concern for Argentina’s play as it looks to become the first repeat champion at the World Cup since Brazil pulled off the feat back in 1962.
Watch Argentina vs. Zambia on Fubo
Meanwhile, after a scoreless draw in regulation, Zambia defeated Malawi 9-8 in a penalty shootout at the Mukuru 4 Nations Tournament on Saturday in Botswana.
Having been knocked out of the group stage at the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, the Chipolopolo are aiming to pull off a historic upset away from home.
These are the last international friendlies before the final rosters are revealed for the upcoming World Cup, set to begin on June 11.
Argentina strikes first with Julián Álvarez scoring in the opening minutes. Thiago Almada may get the assist with a slight touch on a pass from Messi that sparked the sequence in the 4th minute.
Argentina vs. Zambia begins (0′)
Yes, Messi is expected to play. Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni announced Messi would be a starter during a press conference on Monday.
- When: Tuesday, March 31
- Where: Estadio Alberto José Armando (Buenos Aires, Argentina)
- Time: 7:15 p.m. ET
- Channel/streaming: beIN Sports (Watch on Fubo), ViX (Watch on Prime Video)
Argentina vs. Zambia prediction, pick
Despite a poor outing against Mauritania, Argentina is a heavy favorite against visiting Zambia. Expect the defending champions to come out of the gates with something to prove after a subpar showing against Mauritania.
Prediction: Argentina 4, Zambia 0
