Argentina v Saudi Arabia Betting Tips [22 November 2022]

Argentina begin their bid to win the World Cup for the first time since 1986. They take on Saudi Arabia in the opening game in Group C. Later in the day it's the other group match as Poland take on Mexico. The Argentinians are the favorites to win this group and it's important they do that. The runners-up in this group will meet the winners of Group D and that could be France who knocked Argentina out of the 2018 World Cup. The Argentinians come into this World Cup unbeaten in 36 matches, last losing to Brazil in July 2019. Their last five matches have all been won to nil with 19 goals scored. Lionel Messi has scored in each of the last four games, including all five in the 5-0 win over Estonia in June. This will be his last World Cup and this is probably one of the best chances he's had to finally win a World Cup.

Saudi Arabia didn't reach their first World Cup finals until 1994. They reached the last 16 on that occasion but four subsequent appearances have seen then eliminated in the group stages with one win in 12 matches. Saudi Arabia would have been better hosts for this tournament. Like Qatar, they are keen to be seen hosting important sporting events, so may be possible future hosts. They won their World Cup qualifying group by a point from Japan. All five of their home games were won and they finished eight points clear of third placed Australia. They have not enjoyed a good build-up to this tournament with only two wins in their last eight internationals. There haven't been many goals scored in their games. The last 19 Saudi Arabia internationals have all had under 2.5 goals scored in them. Not since October 2021 have they managed to score twice in a game. 12 games have been played since they last conceded more than once (losing 2-0 in Japan) but that record is in danger here. Go for Argentina to win this and be ahead at both half and full time. A side bet on an Argentinian win to nil also looks a likely winner.