Brazil vs Argentina: South America's best square off in Buenos Aires for first World Cup berth

Argentina and Brazil will bring their simmering rivalry to the fore on Wednesday, as these two titans square up in front of a packed stadium in Buenos Aires with FIFA World Cup qualifying points at stake. With Germany 2006 just around the corner, the stars on both sides will be looking to light up the night sky in this much anticipated match.

In spite of leading their qualifying group, the Argentina team is going through a period of transition. Many observers have witnessed during the team's last few performances the Argentine side is full of highly-talented individuals, but still needs work to be able to function well as a unit. Against a rival as strong as Brazil, this flaw could be exposed at key moments of the game.

Despite only having lost one game away from home, Brazil have been much less effective on their travels. For the record, they have won two, drawn five and lost one of their away ties so far, picking up less than half the points available.

With players of the calibre of Hernan Crespo, Ronaldinho, Juan Roman Riquelme, Kaka, Pablo Aimar and Adriano on display, it should be a match of the highest quality.

The difference between these two sides may well come down to which of their superstars can keep a cool head in the heated atmosphere of the Estadio Monumental. No doubt the tactical scheming of Carlos Parreira and Jose Pekerman, as well as the 60,000 or so fans in attendance, will play some part in deciding the outcome.

It is also worth noting that both teams can also count on a host of world-class players on the bench who could make a late entrance and turn the game.

Victory for either team on Wednesday will secure their qualification for Germany 2006. Even without this incentive, of course, pride alone would guarantee a keenly fought contest in this continental classic. For Argentina, beating Brazil has been both a passion and a mission.

Crespo has assured a victory for the home team. Brazil's Ronaldinho has no illusions about the size of the task ahead. The cards have been dealt. The teams are ready. Argentina versus Brazil with the winner qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, does it get any bigger than this?

Sports Betting Game Odds from: BODOG

Spread:

+200 Brazil

+120 Argentina

+200 DRAW

Prediction: In a battle of two attacking teams, a draw is nearly impossible. There can be only one winner. Against bigtime teams like Argentina, Brazil always steps up their level of play. With an assured World Cup berth on the line, the Brazilians will play top-level football. Brazil to win by two goals to one.

for more Sports Betting Tips, Odds, Picks, Lines and Predictions, click here: Sports Betting Index

Technorati: Ronaldo, World Cup Betting, Soccer, World+Cup, World Cup Qualifying, FIFA World Cup, Soccer Betting, Soccer Tips, World Cup Tips, World Cup Picks