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Argentina and Iraq lock horns at the Stade de Lyon on Saturday for their second game in the group stages of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The sides have been drawn alongside Ukraine and Morocco in Group B of the men's tourmament.
Much to everyone's surprise, Argentina were beaten 2-1 by Morocco in their opening game. A double from Soufiane Rahimi had them trailing in the game before Giuliano Simeone pulled one back for the Albiceleste, although it couldn't inspire their comeback.
Julian Alvarez, who won the 2024 Copa America with Argentina's senior team earlier this month, was nullified by the Atlas Lions, while highly-rated youngster Thiago Almada also couldn't produce his best.
Head coach Javier Mascherano will be demanding more from his side in this game, as the South American giants look to avoid the ignominy of going out in the first round.
Iraq, though, pulled off a stunning 2-1 comeback victory over Ukraine in their first appearance at the Olympics since 2016. Valentyn Rubchynskyi put the Ukrainians in front after 53 minutes, but Aymen Hussein equalized for the Lions of Babylon from the penalty spot just four minutes later.
Ali Jasim then popped up with the winning goal in the 75th minute as the Middle Eastern minnows made a big statement. However, they face perhaps their biggest test of the round against Argentina on matchday two, but will be confident of their chances.
Argentina vs Iraq Head-To-Head and Key Numbers
- Argentina and Iraq meet in the Olympics for the first time in history
- Having lost out in the group stages of the last two editions, Argentina could see a third consecutive first round exit at the Olympics if they lose here too
- Argentina's Giuliano Simeone came off the bench to score against Morocco in their first game and will be hoping to secure a spot in the starting XI here as reward for his heroics
Argentina vs Iraq Prediction
Argentina will be more cautious here as they cannot afford to lose. Javier Mascherano's side have the means to bounce back here and revive their Paris Olympics campaign. We expect them to to do exactly that.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Iraq
Argentina vs Iraq Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Result: Argentina
Tip 2 - Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5
Tip 3 - Both teams to score: Yes
