Prediction: Venezuela vs Argentina

Best odds: 24/5

Bookmaker:

Venezuela and Argentina are set to lock horns on Friday in the quarterfinals of this year s Copa America edition.

Venezuela

Having successfully navigated through Group A of the competition without a defeat, Venezuela have been somewhat of a pleasant surprise, especially as they held off hosts Brazil to a 0-0 draw. They achieved the same result against Peru in the opening round, and booked their place in the knockout stages by putting three past Bolivia and conceding one in return.

Apart from Brazil, this is likely to turn out their greatest challenge so far.

Team News

Despite being available for selection after serving a one-match ban, Luis Del Pino is expected to sit this one out too, with Ronald Hernandez looking likely to be chosen by coach Rafael Dudamel on the left defensive flank again.

Argentina

The biggest question that this tournament poses when it comes to La Albiceleste is surely whether five-time Ballon d Or winner, 32-year-old Lionel Messi will finally break the curse and win an international trophy in his career. He came agonizingly close on several occasions, most notably at the 2014 World Cup, and judging by his reported statements, one would say that he seems motivated now more than ever.

Nonetheless, Argentina started the group stage in a bleak manner. They lost the opener 0-2 to Colombia and drew 1-1 with Paraguay, and only through the last-round 2-0 victory over Asian Cup winners Qatar did they manage to scrape through.

Team News

There are reports that midfielder Goivani Lo Celso could lose his place in the starting XI after putting in poor performances in the group stage. In the last game, Juan Foyth played instead of German Pezzella in the heart of defence, and it will be interesting to see which one of them starts this time around.

Conclusion

Despite the bright run by Venezuela so far, Argentina still seem like the overwhelming favorites to book a place in the semifinal. And when Lionel Messi is fired up, he usually delivers.

Verdict: Messi to score two or more goals.

Best odds: 24/5

Bookmaker:

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