class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>The last few meetings between these South American neighbours have been low-scoring affairs and that run should continue when they meet this week<\/p>\n
<\/head><\/p>\nCopa America champions Argentina face Paraguay as the Albiceleste look to continue their strong run of form in CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying.<\/p>\n
Lionel Scaloni’s men sit second in the table, unbeaten in their last 12 qualifiers, and take on a Paraguay side who remain in the hunt for a spot at the World Cup despite recording just two wins from nine games in the current qualifying tournament. <\/p>\n
Paraguay vs Argentina latest odds<\/p>\n
The most recent meeting between the sides came in June at the Copa America with Argentina triumphing by a 1-0 scoreline.<\/p>\n
Another win for the two-time world champions can be backed at 4\/7 (1.57) with bet365.<\/p>\n
The last time the teams met on Paraguayan soil the game ended in a goalless draw in 2015 and another stalemate is on offer at 11\/4 (3.75) with Paraguay clear outsiders at 5\/1 (6.00). <\/p>\n
Paraguay vs Argentina team news<\/p>\n
The hosts are without River Plate defender David Martinez and Brondby full-back Blas Riveros who have both pulled out of the squad.<\/p>\n
The visitors for their part are missing Juventus forward Paulo Dybala who picked up a thigh injury in his side’s win over Sampdoria in Serie A.<\/p>\n
Lionel Messi is included in the squad and expected to play a prominent part having started every match in the qualifying tournament so far. <\/p>\n
Paraguay vs Argentina preview<\/p>\n
Last month saw Argentina claim convincing wins over Venezuela and Bolivia, the two bottom sides in the competition, although Paraguay should provide sterner opposition.<\/p>\n
Eduardo Berizzo’s team have only lost at home to Brazil in the tournament and will be highly motivated against their more illustrious southern neighbours.<\/p>\n
Paraguay have shown in recent years they are more than capable of frustrating Argentina and the record in this fixture over the last five meetings is extremely even: one win apiece and three draws.<\/p>\n
While the visitors have more quality in their squad, they are likely to find it difficult to break down an organised side and backing another tight game looks appealing. <\/p>\n
Paraguay vs Argentina tips & predictions<\/p>\n
Under 2.5 goals has paid out the last five times these nations have faced each other and is offered again at 4\/6 (1.65).<\/p>\n
Combining this selection with both teams to score ‘no’ sees the odds rise to an appealing evens (2.00). <\/p>\n
Odds correct at the time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.<\/p>\n