Argentina vs Uruguay for World Cup 2018 Qualifying: Messi, Suarez Return in Classic Rival Matchup; Match Preview, Predictions, TV Info and Live Streaming
Barcelona's top stars are set to defend their home countries Thursday; who will prevail?
The CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier is about to reach its most anticipated match yet, as the fiercest rivals of South America face off for the top spot in the standings.
Argentina and Uruguay's battles had long been the stuff of football legends. Fans even have a nickname for it—Clasico del Rio de la Plata. And with La Liga's two biggest stars clashing on the same field Thursday, the classic matchup may etch another mark in history.
The legend returns
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Changes have been made in La Albiceleste, following a tough second-straight loss in the Copa America Centenario final against Chile. To add to their struggles, Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international play, frustrated by his country's title drought.
Moreover, manager Gerardo Martino had resigned from the team, handing over his position to Edgardo Bauza. Bauza took the job on August 1, and will be debuting against Uruguay come Thursday.
For Argentinian football fans, however, the biggest news is Messi's change of heart. The five time FIFA Ballon D'Or awardee chose to return after a meeting with Bauza, and had since performed well with his country's team.
Messi scored two goals in the second half to sweep Bolivia 2-0 in their last qualifying game. The match was held at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes in Cordoba on March 29.
The catch? The veteran striker sustained a hamstring injury against Athletic Bilbao during their Week 2 La Liga matchup. However, Bauza said they will take care of their prized star, who resumed training for the Uruguay battle on Tuesday. The team also be missing Sergio Aguero and Javier Pastore to injuries.
Argentina currently ranks third in the qualifying standings with 11 points. The top four nations in the tournament will advance to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
The team to beat
Uruguay, meanwhile, had gained the upper hand in the tournament so far. La Celeste's 18 points had elevated to the top of the standings, and are putting up an outstanding performance.
Paris Saint-Germain's Edinson Cavani led his country to their fourth win in six games against Peru on March 29, with the renowned striker scoring the game-winner at the 53rd minute.
However, the biggest news for this team is the return of top-tier striker Luis Suarez. The star of FC Barcelona—a club he shares with Messi—had just won the Pichichi Award as La Liga's top scorer for the 2015-16 season. He also ties the most goals in the league as it enters Week 3, scoring a hat trick in their season opener against Real Betis.
Analysts are predicting a close fight, which could end in either a draw or a tight Argentinian win on their home floor. Fans would have to see for themselves on September 1, 7:30 p.m. EDT at Estadio Melvinas Argentinas in Mendoza. The match can be viewed on Sony ESPN, beIN Sports and online through beIN Sports Connect.
