Argentina take on Mexico in this pivotal match as the second fixture for Group C. These two teams have played in three friendlies since 2018, with Argentina winning each match and keeping a clean sheet.
La Albiceleste are coming off a stunning 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia during their opening match of the World Cup.
Meanwhile, El Tri managed to salvage a point in a scoreless draw against Poland after Robert Lewandowski missed a crucial penalty kick for the White and Red.
As the top team in Group C and one of the tournament favorites, Argentina comes into this match with expectations of securing three points. Mexico will try to overcome the losses of attackers Jesús Corona and Raúl Jiménez, both of which may not be able to recover in time.
Given their underwhelming performance in CONCACAF qualifying (second in the group) along with these injuries, it’s going to be difficult for Mexico to get a point out of this match. Add in the fact that Argentina is currently on a 35-game unbeaten streak, and it’s trouble for Mexico.
Let’s dive into the betting odds to guide us in finding the best bets and props for this Group C match between Argentina and Mexico.
Argentina vs Mexico Odds
- 3-way handicap: Argentina (-180) | Draw (+270) | Mexico (+460)
- Draw No Bet: Argentina (-550) | Mexico (+320)
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 (-102) | Under 2.5 (-136)
- Both Teams to Score: Yes (+108) | No (-136)
Argentina vs Mexico odds are current as of 12 p.m. EST, on Oct. 19, at FanDuel Sportsbook.
Argentina is a bit pricey at -180 odds, but it makes sense considering their current form and overall talent. The Under looks like a strong bet because of how well Argentina have played defensively, even at a -136 cost.
It’s going to be difficult for Mexico to break down Argentina here, especially with limited possession as well as their injuries up front. That makes betting Both Teams Not to Score look appealing, as well.
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Argentina vs Mexico Prediction
Argentina 2-0 Mexico
We all know Argentina as a perennial World Cup contender, but this version of La Albiceleste feels more formidable than past squads. That’s because they now have a stout backline that includes center backs Lisandro Martínez and Cristian Romero.
Argentina conceded only eight goals in 17 fixtures during CONMEBOL qualifying. Even more impressive, they’ve allowed two goals in their last 12 games, two of which were friendlies against Jamaica and Honduras.
Goal prevention has often been a weakness for Argentina, but now they’ve addressed that issue. That’s a dangerous combination with an attack that includes Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez.
While there’s a good chance that they’ll be without Ángel Di María (hamstring) and Paulo Dybala (quad), there’s still enough offensive firepower to carry the team in Messi’s final World Cup, especially against one of the weaker Mexico squads in recent memory.
In their last three friendlies, Mexico have gone 1-0-2, defeating Peru while losing to Colombia and Paraguay. There are low expectations surrounding the team right now, with a lot of media scrutiny on manager Gerardo Martino.
They will need to play a defensive style, keeping it organized and making it tough for opponents to break them down. That’s their best course of action given the injuries to Corona and Jiménez in attack.
Look for Argentina to control this game, maintaining a lion’s share of possession as Mexico struggles to play for a draw. I’m projecting a win and clean sheet for La Albiceleste here.
Argentina vs Mexico Betting Tips
- Argentina is currently on a 35-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.
- Key injuries: Di María, Dybala (Argentina); Corona, Jiménez (Mexico).
- Mexico will likely “park the bus" to try to fight for a point.
- Expect Argentina to control possession and scoring chances in this match.
Argentina vs Mexico Best Bets
Under 2.5 Goals (-136) at FanDuel Sportsbook
WAGER: 1 Unit
I’m projecting Argentina to keep Mexico off the scoresheet in this match. That would make it difficult for the total to go Over, as Argentina would need to win by at least 3-0. Look for Mexico to do enough defensively to keep it Under, especially since they’ll likely sit back to play for a draw.
Argentina -1 (+185) at FanDuel Sportsbook
WAGER: 1 Unit
I love the value in taking Argentina at -1 on the Match Handicap. I don’t need to worry about losing my wager if they only win by one goal, so that extra half of a goal is huge. The +185 odds are enticing considering Argentina’s elite form right now, while Mexico has been struggling.