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#3 Guido Rodríguez vs Lucas Paqueta
Brazil have produced some fine midfielders over the years and one player who is looking to join the ranks is Lucas Paqueta. The AC Milan midfielder has cemented his place in the Selecao starting lineup. He has impressive distribution skills and ability to contribute on either half of the pitch.
He has scored two goals this campaign, including the winning goal against Colombia on Friday. His ability to operate anywhere across the middle of the pitch makes him a tricky player to track.
Guido Rodriguez is probably the only pure defensive midfielder in the Argentina squad currently. There will be a lot of responsibility on his shoulders to ensure Brazil do not dance their way through to the goal. He has a physical presence on the pitch and has a knack for tackling.
#2 Cristian Romero vs Neymar
Neymar has hit a purple patch with Brazil in their qualifying campaign. He has had a huge part in making them the first team from the CONMEBOL qualifiers to seal a spot in the World Cup finals.
He has seven goals and eight assists to his name, meaning he has been involved in 15 of 27 goals for Brazil this campaign. The PSG star will be the biggest threat for Argentina on the pitch and needs to be kept in check.
Argentina have a good defensive record and one of the first players that comes to mind is Tottenham Hotspur's, Cristian Romero. He has been solid in his displays with the national team as they have managed to concede just six goals so far. All of his positional awareness and tackling prowess will be put to the test against Neymar.
#1 Lionel Messi vs Thiago Silva
Lionel Messi has not been highly prolific in front of goal for his club but has played well for Argentina. He has featured in all of the qualifying games for Argentina and is expected to play a great part against Brazil. He has six goals to his name so far. He will be hoping to add more to his tally and a goal against Brazil will look good.
Brazil's defense is being led by veteran Thiago Silva, who has been a rock at the back. He wears the captain's armband every time he starts on the pitch. His battle with Argentina captain Messi makes for a fitting battle between the two captains.
