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Premier League Team of the Year: Excluding Top 7 Club Players

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This team intends to shed light on those players outperforming their teammates outside of the Premier League’s elite teams.  Players from United, City, Chelsea, Arsenal, Spurs, Everton and Liverpool are therefore ineligible for selection. Furthermore, a general prerequisite to qualify is that players need to have played throughout the entire season (apologies to Le Newcastle’s January parade).

I’m aware of how subjective this is- picking some of these positions was incredibly difficult, and I’m sure some worthy players, in the eyes of some, may have missed out.

Finally, this team seeks to be tactically balanced- if these players were picked together, you would expect them to gel.  That would explain the midfield combination of two relatively defensive players, and a deep lying striker combined with an out-and-out goalscorer.

Simon Mignolet, Sunderland

Perhaps one of the hardest positions to decide- Asmir Begovic and Jussi Jääskeläinen were both in with a shout. Jääskeläinen actually boasts the best goalkeeping stats of the three (only just), but Mignolet takes his place in the team based on Sunderland’s ropey defence and his assured performances during the adversity of relegation. Reliable, an excellent communicator and a fantastic shot stopper, Sunderland will do well to keep him, with Arsenal rumoured to be interested.

 Matthew Lowton, Aston Villa

One of Lambert’s brave defensive youngsters, signed from Sheffield United for £3 million last summer. Other than the two ‘worldy’ volleys he scored from outside the box against Swansea and Stoke, Lowton is fantastic going forward and is looking like one of the more technically adept full backs in the league, especially with regards to his crossing. He’s started all but one of Villa’s matches this season, and his ability as their leading interceptor (2.9 per game) illustrates his shrewd intelligence off the ball.  Bags of potential here, and a constant threat down Villa’s right flank.

Chico Flores, Swansea

Outside of the top 7 Swansea, West Ham and Stoke have boasted the best defensive records this season. The first central defensive spot was a toss up between Chico and his highly rated, Liverpool-linked, partner Ashley Williams.  Chico gets the nod for what has been an outstanding debut season, not just for his defensive efforts, but his excellent ball-playing skills too, a perfect fit for both manager Michael Laudrup and Swansea. The Spaniard has been the teams leading tackler (3.4 per game), and interceptor (3.5 per game), and his overall contribution to Swansea’s season has been invaluable.

 Winston Reid, West Ham

 The New-Zealander has had an excellent turnaround at Upton Park having not been a consistent starter in his first season during the 2010/11 season. An adept tackler with impressive concentration levels, Reid has been a rock for the Hammers, starting all but 2 of their league matches this year.  At the tender age of just 24, he looks a decent asset for the future.

 Danny Rose, Sunderland

 A bright spark in what has been a disappointing season for the Black Cats, Danny Rose will be missed at the Stadium of Light when he returns to Spurs at the end of his loan deal.  Like Lowton on the opposite flank, Rose perhaps stands out because of his technical strengths, and his forward surges have often been a rare piece of inspiration in a blunt Sunderland attack. In similar fashion to Gael Clichy, Rose’s excellent anticipation skills make him a decent interceptor of the ball too.  His goal against Villa was a just reward for an impressive season, and best illustrates his ability to cause problems when surging forward.

 Robert Snodgrass, Norwich

 Snodgrass’ value to Norwich has already been discussed in depth on this blog, but the Scotsman has been integral in providing some attacking creativity to Norwich’s often tedious style of play.  Adept (like most wingers) at playing on either flank, Snodgrass is excellent from dead ball situations  and has also had the positional intelligence to mold into Norwich manager Chris Hughton’s desire to play with two rigid banks of four.  Perhaps not the quickest, most direct winger, but intelligent and hard working.

 Morgan Schneiderlin, Southampton

 Perhaps one of the most underrated defensive midfielders in the PL, Schneiderlin’s contribution to Southampton’s survival can in no way be understated.  Stats wise, defensive contributions can be measured by interceptions and tackles, with certain players usually dominating one of these areas based on a team’s style of play.  It is extremely rare to see a player profoundly dominate both of these stat sectors across the entire league but Schniederlin has achieved this, averaging 4.1 tackles and 3.9 interceptions per game, across 35 appearances. A combative, proactive player, the Frenchmen has thrived under Mauricio Pochettino’s strategy of heavy pressing and retaining possession, and is one of the most deserving players in this team.

 Mohamed Diamé, West Ham

 Allardyce was astute in poaching Diamé on a free transfer from Wigan last summer, and the Frenchmen just about pips West Brom’s Youssouf Mulumbu to claim the second midfield spot based on his fantastic performances in the bigger matches.  The importance of physically imposing dynamic midfielders has again been discussed in detail on this blog, and Diamé’s rising prominence this season is a credit to that assertion.  He individually inspired West Ham to seize an impressive comeback against Chelsea earlier this year, and it is no surprise that Arsenal have been contemplating a bid for him to replace Abou Diaby.  With a minimum-fee release clause of just £3.5m, the midfield monster would arguably be a shrewd purchase for any premier league team.

 Shaun Maloney, Wigan

 An inconsistent player who showed huge potential initially with Celtic, Maloney has finally come good in the Premier League following a lackluster stint with Aston Villa.  Fielded mostly on the left for Wigan this season (but skillful enough to be deployed as a no.10, such as in the FA cup Final against Man City), Maloney is a fine passer and has an eye for threading through some excellent through balls.  A return of 5 goals and 8 assists has been vital for Wigan’s mediocre campaign this season, and it is unlikely the Scotsman will sit in the Championship next season should the Latics be relegated.  His equalising free kick against QPR last month was a sign of his quality from dead ball situations.

 Michu, Swansea

 Probably the easiest player to pick, Michu has been one of the most inspiring signings in Premier League history, with Michael Laudrup picking up the deep-lying forward for just £2m from Real Valladolid.  Perhaps there was some luck here- Spurs’ Gylfi Sigurdsson was set to sign for the Swans, but the deal fell through when Brendan Rodgers departed for Liverpool last summer. Scoring 17 goals in 32 starts, Michu’s role has been interesting.  Instead of being an outright number 9 (despite his shirt number), the Spaniard has always played behind the striker as deeper lying player. It is interesting that he’s been so prolific from a more withdrawn role, and supports a small trend of deeper-lying strikers being more prolific than the outright forwards they are supporting (Sessegnon at Sunderland is another example).  An outstanding finishercoupled with intelligent intricate movement, Michu acts as a yardstick for every scouting department in Europe, and his performances nearly warranted him a place in Del Bosque’s Spain team.

 Christian Benteke, Aston Villa

 A further example of Belgium’s incredible generation of players flooding into the Premier League, Benteke has not only been an outstanding finisher, but also a fantastic target man in the final third.  Having single-handedly won Villa 13 points this season (and in doing so scoring 42% of Villa’s goals), Benteke pips fellow Belgian Romelu Lukaku because of his influence in the final third.  As a designated target man (archetypal of Paul Lambert’s style), Benteke has an incredible rate of winning aerial duels, and is exceptional at bringing others into play, something that Andreas Weimann and Gabrial Agbonlahor have strongly benefited from. Don’t forget about one of England’s most prolific strikers either; Benteke has pushed Darren Bent aside with relative ease throughout this season. With Emmanuel Adebayor seemingly too inconsistent to be a genuine starter at Spurs, expect Benteke to be the subject of some intense transfer speculation this summer.

The near misses, those that didn’t make it:

Jussi Jääskeläinen– just behind Mignolet.  Impressive given his release from Bolton, which many felt spelt the end for him.

Angel Rangel– skillful and intelligent, fits the Swansea system perfectly.

Sebastion Bassong– monumental in the Canaries’ survival, with an eye for important goals this season too.

Robert Huth– a toss up between him and Shawcross, Huth nips it.

Luke Shaw- only played 21 times, but that figure is exceptional for a 17 year old (see Raheem Sterling for additional details on burning out mid season as a youngster). Perhaps the most promising talent in British football.

Andros Townsend– wonderful attacking outlet in a horrificallydisorganised QPR team, would have made the full team had he not joined in January.

Youssouf Mulumbu– fantastic at the start of the season (of top 4 quality), and instrumental in West Brom’s impressive opening to the season. Loses his place as he (like West Brom) fell away towards the end of the season,with his bizarre sending off at West Ham illustrating this.

Yohan Cabaye– not as remarkable this season, but signs of real quality on the ball remained. Perhaps somewhat stifled (like Newcastle’s season) by a rigrous fixture list balancing the demands of a Europa league campaign. Top four quality player waiting to be poached.

Nathan Dyer– like Townsend, a classic winger, capable of causing problems with his pace. His brace (not hattrick) against Bradford perhaps the highlight of the season.

Dimitar Berbatov– still a wonderfully gifted player, armed with his nonchalant playing style. Scored a cracker against Stoke, a great indicator of his effortlessly excellent technique.

Romelu Lukaku- not massively behind Benteke, and sure to finally make his mark at Chelsea next year. Him and Benteke have both scored some fantastic goals.

More near misses: Arouna Kone, Rickie Lambert, Ryan Shawcross, Gareth McAuley, Kevin Nolan, Wes Hoolahan, Asmir Begovic, Adrian Mariappa, Gaston Ramirez, Jonathan De Guzman, James MacArthur.

Argentina

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

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Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Argentina will be aiming for a record-breaking 16th Copa America title when they take on Colombia

The Copa America 2024 is set for an electrifying conclusion as defending champions Argentina face off against Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Sunday. This highly anticipated final marks the first-ever Copa America final meeting between these two footballing powerhouses. Argentina aim to secure a record-breaking 16th title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.

Argentina’s road to the final has been marked by grit and determination. They navigated a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Ecuador in the quarter-finals before securing a comfortable 2-0 victory over Canada in the semi-finals. Julian Alvarez opened the scoring, followed by a historic goal from Lionel Messi, who now stands as the second-highest male goalscorer in international football with 109 goals.

Argentina’s unbeaten streak now extends to 10 matches, and they remain unbeaten in major tournament knockout games on American soil since the 1994 World Cup. It is no understatement that they go into the clash as favourites.

Colombia are no pushovers, however. They have been in exceptional form. Since their 1-0 loss to Argentina in World Cup qualifying in February 2022, they have embarked on a record-breaking unbeaten run of 28 matches.

Jefferson Lerma’s header gave Colombia the lead before Daniel Munoz’s red card put them at a numerical disadvantage against Uruguay. Despite this setback, Colombia’s resilience shone through as they held on to secure their place in the final. The victory over Uruguay was marred by a brawl involving Uruguayan players and Colombian supporters, but Colombia’s focus remained unwavering. This final represents a chance for Colombia to end a long wait since their first Copa America triumph in 2001.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

For the final, Argentina face no injury or suspension issues. Head coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to maintain an unchanged lineup. The defence will feature a solid back four with Gonzalo Montiel, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Nicolas Tagliafico, with Emiliano Martinez as the goalkeeper.

In the midfield, Enzo Fernandez and Rodrigo De Paul are anticipated to keep their places, even though Giovani Lo Celso and Exequiel Palacios are pushing for a start. Angel Di Maria is poised for his international farewell on the right wing. Alexis Mac Allister, who has been impressive on the international stage, will play a crucial role, linking up with Messi from the midfield.

Lionel Messi, who overcame a leg injury to play the full match against Canada, will lead the attack alongside Julian Alvarez. Lautaro Martinez, the tournament’s top scorer, is expected to begin on the bench and should be brought on in the second half.

Predicted Playing XI (4-4-2): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Lis. Martinez, Tagliafico; Mac Allister, E. Fernandez, De Paul, Di Maria; Messi, Alvarez

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Colombia

With Daniel Munoz suspended, Santiago Arias is set to start at right-back, joining Davinson Sanchez, Carlos Cuesta, and Johan Mojica in a solid four-man backline. Camilo Vargas will likely be the goalkeeper.

In midfield, Jefferson Lerma and Richard Ríos are expected to form the double pivot, providing protection for the defence and allowing the attacking players to push forward.

Captain James Rodriguez, who has recorded a tournament-high six assists, will continue in the number 10 role. He will be supported by Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Fluminense’s Jhon Arias on the flanks.

Jhon Cordoba, who has contributed with two goals and two assists, is expected to lead the attack, with Jhon Duran and Rafael Santos Borre available as options.

Predicted Playing XI (4-2-3-1): Vargas; Santiago Arias, Sanchez, Cuesta, Mojica; Rios, Lerma; Jhon Arias, Rodriguez, Diaz; Cordoba

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Key Stats

  • Victory will see Argentina win their 16th Copa America title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s illustrious history.
  • Colombia are unbeaten in their last 28 international games.
  • Argentina have won 26 of their 43 meetings against Colombia in all competitions.
  • A win for Colombia will see them win just their second Copa America title, their first since 2001.

Match Deciding Duel

Enzo Fernandez (Argentina) vs James Rodriguez (Colombia)

Argentina vs Colombia: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Argentina have been solid in defence and penetrating their backline has proven to be a challenge for most sides in the competition. Colombia have a rather dynamic attack but will depend on the veteran James Rodriguez to act as the playmaker.

With the likes of Luis Diaz able to make the most of opportunities, the onus will be on Enzo Fernandez to ensure Rodriguez does not have space to manoeuvre in. The duel between the two players could certainly set the tone for which way the cookie crumbles on the night.

Prediction

Argentina 2-1 Colombia

The clash is likely to be an entertaining one with the midfield battle expected to set the tone for the result. Argentina. however, have more strength in depth and the ability to bring a player of Lautaro Martinez’s calibre off the bench in the second half is akin to a cheat code. The Inter Milan star is expected to lead the defending champions to a close 2-1 win on the night.

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Spain vs England: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

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Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final

As Euro 2024 reaches its climax, the football world braces for a thrilling final between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. This highly anticipated match will determine the champions of Europe, with Spain looking to add to their illustrious history and England aiming to lift the Henri Delaunay Trophy for the first time.

Spain, guided by Luis de la Fuente, entered the tournament somewhat under the radar but quickly established themselves as a formidable contender. They navigated the so-called ‘Group of Death’ with ease, securing nine points from three matches against Croatia, Italy, and Albania. Impressively, they emerged from the group stage without conceding a goal to an opposition player.

In the knockout stages, Spain demonstrated their resilience and quality. A stunning 4-1 comeback against Georgia in the last-16 and a tense extra-time victory over hosts Germany in the quarter-finals showcased their grit and talent. The semi-final against France was another test of their mettle, with young star Lamine Yamal lighting up the Allianz Arena and Dani Olmo sealing the win.

Spain’s journey to the final has not been without challenges, but their blend of experience and youthful exuberance has seen them through. They now stand on the brink of history, aiming to become the first European men’s team to win four major tournaments consecutively.

England’s Euro 2024 campaign has been a rollercoaster. Gareth Southgate’s men had a mixed group stage, winning only once against Serbia and drawing against Denmark and Slovenia. Their knockout phase has been a tale of resilience and drama, coming from behind in both the last-16 and quarter-finals.

A lacklustre win over Slovakia and a penalty shootout victory against Switzerland set the stage for a semi-final clash with the Netherlands. Despite early setbacks, including a goal from Dutch prodigy Xavi Simons, England produced their best performance of the tournament. A late winner from Ollie Watkins, following a perfect penalty from Harry Kane, propelled them to their second consecutive Euro final.

Southgate’s squad has shown incredible determination and character, setting new records along the way. Kane’s scoring feats and the team’s ability to perform under pressure have been pivotal to their success.

We take a look at how both sides could line up on the night and what tactics they might employ.

Team News and Predicted XI

Spain

Spain’s bad-tempered quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand fall foul of the referee, leading to their suspensions for the semi-final. Both players are now back at De la Fuente’s disposal, bringing much-needed fresh legs to the Roja XI. Carvajal will replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand should push Nacho to the bench.

Spain are expected to maintain a 4-3-3 formation with Unai Simon in goal. Daniel Carvajal and Marc Cucurella should hold the flanks in defence, while Robin Le Normand and Aymeric Laporte should form the centre-back pairing. Rodri should form the midfield pivot, with Dani Olmo and Fabian Ruiz pushing forward.

Skipper Alvaro Morata should lead the line with the electric duo of Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams providing support. Morata was initially a concern given his freak injury after the win against France. Thankfully for Spain, he trained normally and should lead them out.

Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams

Spain vs England: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

England

England arrive in Berlin with a fully fit squad, including Luke Shaw, who has recovered from injury. Shaw’s performance against Switzerland and his effective stint in the semi-final suggests he may start, replacing Kieran Trippier at left-back.

Southgate is likely to stick with his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation. Jordan Pickford will guard the goal, with a back three of John Stones, Harry Maguire, and Marc Guehi.

Shaw and Kyle Walker will operate as wing-backs, while Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham form the midfield pivot. Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka will support captain Harry Kane in attack. Southgate has enough game-changers on the bench and it remains to be seen if he will have the nerve to make bold calls or play the long game and roll the dice.

Predicted Playing XI (4-3-3): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Key Stats

  • A victory on the night will see Spain secure their fourth title, making them the most successful side in the competition’s history.
  • A win for England will see them triumph in the European Championships for the first time in their history.
  • Spain and England have faced off 27 times in all competitions. La Roja have won 10 games while England have won 14. Three games ended in a draw.
  • England have never lost to Spain in a UEFA European Championship clash before.

Match Deciding Duel

Lamine Yamal (Spain) vs Luke Shaw (Spain)

Lamal has been a critical difference-maker for Spain in this year’s tournament and will hope to end it on a high. Up against the recently returned Luke Shaw, he will aim to run rings against the English veteran.

Shaw’s ability to get caught out could provide Yamal the space he needs to run into and put the English backline into disarray. This should also subsequently free up Dani Olmo to make his trademarks into the box.

Spain and England will face off for continental supremacy in the Euro 2024 final.

Prediction

Spain 1-1 England (Spain to Win on Penalties)

England will be keen to end their trophy drought and also go one better than last time around. While they have a strong squad with plenty of depth, Southgate’s inability to take calculated risks should play right into Spain’s hands. It remains unlikely that the trophy will go ‘home’ anytime soon.

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Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

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Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More

Argentina and Canada will face off in the first semifinal of Copa America 2024, a repeat of the competition opener from Group A

Canada have a golden opportunity to make history as they face defending champions Argentina in the first semi-final of Copa America 2024 at MetLife Stadium on Tuesday.

In a rematch of their tournament opener, Canada can become the second CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America final. Both sides advanced to the semi-finals via penalty shootouts, with Argentina defeating Ecuador and Canada overcoming Venezuela after 1-1 draws in regular time respectively.

Argentina’s path to the semi-finals has been fortified by their exceptional defence and goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. The victory over Ecuador secures their fifth consecutive appearance in the Copa America semi-finals. Historically, Argentina have been strong at this stage, progressing in seven of their last eight attempts, with the only setback being against Brazil in 2019.

A triumph on Tuesday would mark the first time Argentina reached the Copa America final as defending champions since 1959. Scaloni’s team has been defensively sound, conceding just once throughout the tournament. The Albiceleste are unbeaten in their last nine matches across all competitions, allowing only three goals during this period.

On the other hand, Canada has shown remarkable resilience since their initial loss to Argentina. Jesse Marsch’s squad has conceded just once in their last three games. They are the third CONCACAF team to reach the Copa America semi-finals in their debut appearance, following Honduras and Mexico. They are also the first from the region to advance this far since the USA in 2016.

This semi-final marks Canada’s fifth appearance in the final four of a continental tournament this century. They have progressed beyond this stage twice, in the 2023 Nations League and the 2000 Gold Cup. Canada aims to emulate Mexico’s 2001 Copa America run, where Mexico reached the final before losing to Colombia.

Argentina’s defensive stability and tactical discipline under Scaloni will be pivotal, also giving their world-class frontline a base to build upon. Canada, under Marsch, has transformed into a more disciplined and resilient team. Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies will be crucial in breaking down Argentina’s defence. SoccerSouls takes a closer look at this clash.

Team News and Predicted XI

Argentina

Lionel Messi was not at his best against Ecuador and will be keen to make amends for the penalty miss in the shootout. he missed the final group game with a hamstring injury but now appears to be back to full fitness.

Lionel Scaloni is likely to retain his flexible 4-3-3 formation with Emiliano Martínez in goal. He should be protected by the back four of Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Marcos Acuna.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes should perform the role of the pivot in the centre, giving Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister and the dynamic Rodrigo De Paul the freedom to push forward. Lionel Messi is expected to don the playmaker’s role with Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez leading the line. Angel Di Maria will offer Argentina another option off the bench should they need to shift gears.

Probable Lineup (4-3-3): Emi. Martinez; Molina, Romero, Li. Martinez, Acuna; Mac Allister, Paredes, De Paul; Messi, La. Martinez, Alvarez

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Canada

Inter Milan Tajon Buchanan remains a major doubt for Canada after he suffered a broken tibia during training just days before their match against Venezuela. This injury puts his participation in doubt not just for the semi-final clash against Argentina but also for the remainder of the tournament.

Jesse Marsch has an otherwise fully fit squad to choose from for the clash and is expected to set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation with Maxime Crépeau in goal. The shot-stopper should be protected by the back four of Alistair Johnston, Moise Bombito, Derek Cornelius, and  Alphonso Davies.

Stephen Eustáquio and Jonathan Osorio should form the double pivot, freeing up Jonathan David to act as the playmaker. Cyle Larin should start up front, with Richie Laryea and Jacob Shaffelburg providing support out wide.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Crepeau; Johnston, Bombito, Cornelius, Davies; Osorio, Eustaquio; Laryea, David, Shaffelburg; Larin

Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Key Stats

  • Argentina have never conceded a goal against Canada.
  • Argentina have not lost a major tournament match on U.S. soil since a 3-2 defeat to Romania in the 1994 World Cup’s round of 16.
  • A win on the night will see Canmada make it to their first-ever Copa America final at the first time of asking.
  • Argentina have not made it to the final of the competition as defending champions since 1959.

Match Deciding Duel

Lautaro Martinez (Argentina) vs Derek Cornelius (Canada)
Argentina vs Canada: Match Preview, Team News, Predictions and More.

Lautaro Martinez is the top scorer in the tournament this season and has made it a habit of scoring late goals for Argentina. This augurs well for a side that is defensively compact, giving them a second wind to settle the game as the opposition gets tired. Derek Cornelius will have his hands full all night but will know that he cannot slack off for even a second with Martinez on the prowl.

Argentina’s ability to score late coupled with Canada’s vulnerabilities in the second half of the game makes for a thrilling finale in the final 30 minutes of the first semifinal. While Argentina do have several threats and matchwinners in their lineup, Martinez’s clinical touch has given them the edge this summer. He will certainly be aiming to make a difference once again on Tuesday.

Transfer Watch

Jonathan David

The LOSC Lille attacker is Canada’s trump card going forward and is expected to leave the Ligue 1 giants this summer. David is a pacy player whose ability to get into space and clinical ability in the box helps make a difference. While several clubs are keeping tabs on him, a solid showing against the defending FIFA World Cup holders will only help boost his profile among potential suitors.

David will be up against the meanest defence in the competition on the night. The duo of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez aren’t just formidable defenders but their ‘take no prisoners’ approach will certainly add a physical element to the duel. David is unlikely to come up against a meaner backline in the competition and how well he handles this challenge could determine his stock this summer.

Prediction

Argentina 2-0 Canada

Both teams will be familiar with each other having felt each other out on the opening day. The stakes are much higher this time round and Canada will be hoping for a monumental upset. Argentina were handed a late scare against Ecuador and that perhaps will ensure they don’t take Tuesday’s game for granted. The game should be a hard-fought one with Argentina’s match winners making the difference in the second half of the game.

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