Argentina vs Australia. Prediction and Betting Tips for 2022 World Cup

Argentina national team was considered a clear favourite in the group with Poland, Saudi Arabia and Mexico. But Lionel Scaloni's team got off to a poor start: they dominated throughout the first half of the game against Saudi Arabia, but scored only once. Albiceleste conceded twice after the half-time and were unable to strike back. 

A 1:2 defeat left no margin for error. Lionel Messi was instrumental for Albiceleste in their 2:0 victory over Mexico in the second match, he scored a crucial opening goal. Argentina still needed to beat Poland in order to advance into the playoffs and they fully delivered - two goals in the second half brought Argentina a top spot in the group. 

Australia national team was not expected to make it into the playoffs. Graham Arnold's team played against France, Denmark and Tunisia, European teams were heavily favoured in this group. In the first match team took a predictable 1:4 defeat from France, but that loss didn't discourage Australia. An accurate header from Matthew Duke brought Australia three points in a game against Tunisia. 

But even after that victory, Australia still needed to beat Denmark in order to advance into the playoffs. European team was a clear favourite of the match. Denmark played better on the offense, but Australia managed to keep a clean sheet and orchestrated one goal-scoring attack - Matthew Leckie scored a winner and led Australia into the playoffs.