Argentina are headed into this match as a genuine favourite, though their group stage performances were more than a little underwhelming. Sure, they won all three of their games, but none of them by more than a single goal margin. But even though their performances have been pretty average, they should have more than enough to progress into the quarterfinals at the expense of Switzerland. Argentina were dealt a big blow in their final group game against Nigeria , with striker Sergio Kun Agüero brought off with an injury. A full diagnosis has actually revealed a muscular tear, ruling him out for the remainder of the tournament. PSG's Ezequiel Lavezzi will likely come into the Albiceleste 's attacking trident in his absence, with Lionel Messi playing to the right of centre-forward Gonzalo Higuaín.
Ottmar Hitzfeld's side were touted as dark horses before arriving in Brazil , but after the group stages there are
serious questions to be asked of their defence. They'll certainly have to tighten things up to stand any chance of beating Argentina and progressing into the next round. Switzerland are without centre-back Steve von Bergen after he sustained a facial fracture in the group stages, with Fabian Schär and Philippe Senderos doing battle of his spot in the centre of defence. Otherwise, Ottmar Hitzfeld's side will likely stay unchanged.
Bayern Munich's Xherdan Shaqiri has been a talking point for the Swiss team after scoring thrice in their last group game against Honduras, though he has been terrorising any opposing team’s defences in the other games at least has proven himself as a goal poacher and should be equally seen as threat like Lionel Messi. Both players have a lot in common not only in skill and pace but also in stature. Albiceleste have been scary at the attack and would really love to play against a team like Switzerland that has been open defensively. I expect goals here perhaps four at least.
Verdict: Over 3.5 goals
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