World Cup
Netherlands vs Argentina prediction


The Netherlands and Argentina meet on Friday night in one of the most-anticipated quarter-final ties of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
It’s a rematch of the 2014 semi-final in which the South Americans progressed on penalties after a 0-0 draw.
A few things that remain the same eight years later: Louis van Gaal is the Netherlands’ head coach once again. And the experienced coach brings back Stefan de Vrij, Daley Blind and Memphis Depay from Brazil eight years ago.
Argentina have two players that were runners-up in Brazil: Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria.
The Netherlands have been efficient if not spectacular, and I can see them making the final from this half of the draw. That’s despite being underdogs for this match, as they would be should they meet Brazil in the semi-finals.
Cody Gakpo has scored three goals from just five shots on goal – one with his head, left foot and right. Whilst the PSV Eindhoven star has been efficient in front of goal, the country will be concerned about the lack of chances created for the 23-year-old. However, Memphis Depay has had twice as many efforts, showing that the European nation don’t rely on one man.
Defensively, the USA scored a consolation in their 1-3 second round loss, whilst Ecuador were the only team to beat Andries Noppert in the group stage. With Virgil van Dijk and Mattijs de Ligt in front of him he can expect few efforts on goal, even with Lionel Messi in the opposition lineup.
I don’t think Argentina are genuine contenders for the Jules Rimet trophy this year. Yes, Messi is capable of producing a moment or two of magic in any game, and Julian Alvarez is proving to be proficient in 2022. But aside from that, you really only have Angel Di Maria creating anything. Therefore if the Dutch can keep him and Messi under control they will be well on their way to a clean sheet.
Best bet: Netherlands double chance is 4/6 with BetFred
Value bet: Netherlands to qualify is 11/8 with BetFred