Netherlands vs Argentina: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head

The quarter-finals beckon as two football titans confront Friday night at Lusail Stadium.

Since Lous van Gaal assumed for the second time, Netherlands have developed into a side with lofty goals. He finished first in the group and defeated the United States in the round of 16. Netherlands have a wide range of skills, and players can make all the difference in the game. Van Gaal will be attempting to reach his second semi-final when they tackle Argentina.

Argentina regrouped following a shock loss to Saudi Arabia and has since defeated Mexico, Poland, and Australia. And, as usual, Messi's decisive goals have made waves. Argentina have looked promising, and with the intention of achieving all of the games, their character and approach have given them merit in the games.

Kick-off: 12:30 am IST, 7 pm GMT

Netherlands form (all competition): WWDWW

Argentina form (all competition): WLWWW

Players to watch

Netherlands

Frenkie de Jong

He is the premier midfielder in the Netherlands. De Jong's poise on the ball benefits his team much, especially against Argentina's intense pressing. So, in these games, De Jong pushes harder and makes room for his squad in small gaps. He will be the Netherlands' most vital player against Argentina.

Argentina

De Paul

He may not be a creative or quick thinker, but De Paul's pressing and quick ball recoveries have helped his teammates launch immediate attacks. When possession is lost, De Paul's exuberance is unrivalled in games, and against a powerful Netherlands side, he will be the most valuable player to win the possession back.

Injury and team news

Van Gaal will have his starting lineup ready for the game, and he is expected to use the same lineup against Argentina.

The players denied reports that De Paul was training alone. While Gomez was substituted in the second half against Australia, Di Maria, who missed the game due to muscle exhaustion, is expected to participate. Scaloni used three central defenders and appears to be considering adding an extra midfielder or defender if Di Maria does not recover in time.

Head-to-head stats

Matches: 9

Netherlands: 4

Argentina: 3

Draws: 2

Predicted lineup

Netherlands predicted lineup (3-4-1-2):

Noppert; Timber, Van Dijk, Ake; Dumfries, De Roon, F De Jong, Blind; Klaassen; Gakpo, Depay.

Argentina predicted lineup (3-5-2):

E Martinez; Romero, Otamendi, Li Martinez; Molina, De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister, Acuna; Messi, Alvarez.

Prediction

This will be a close series, and Van Gaal will look to exploit Argentina's vulnerability, Lionel Messi. The former Barcelona player directs the game and is responsible for Argentina's attractive football. However, Van Gaal understands what it takes to put Argentina on the weak side in order to rectify its defeat in 2014.

But Van Gaal will not make the same error again, and you cannot underestimate Argentina, which have grown albeit without Messi. Argentina's attacking threat may create a dilemma for the Dutch.

Prediction: Netherlands 2-3 Argentina