Argentina, Holland, Mexico shoot for knockout round spots

The focus turns to the ultra-competitive Group C this Friday, where Serbia and Montenegro and Côte d'Ivoire, already have their backs to the wall and need to pull off a real surprise against Argentina and Netherlands respectively. In Group D, Mexico can take a big step towards the round of sixteen by beating Angola.

Argentina – Serbia and Montenegro, 15:00 (CET), Gelsenkirchen, Group C. After a narrow 1-0 defeat to Netherlands, Ilija Petkovic’s 21 remaining men have had four days to regroup and gather their forces ahead of their clash with the Albiceleste. The South Americans were given a tough test in their opening-game win against Côte d’Ivoire and coach José Pekerman will have to decide whether to start with Lionel Messi or Carlos Tevez in the middle – or even both.

BET on Argentina vs Serbia-Montenegro HERE!

Netherlands - Côte d'Ivoire, 18:00 (CET), Stuttgart, Group C. Despite leaving their shooting boots at home, the Africans’ build-up play against Argentina was excellent and provided grounds for real optimism. Against a Dutch outfit which was very solid against Serbia and Montenegro, they will have to take any and all of the chances that come their way. Should both Netherlands and Argentina win, the Oranje would join the South Americans in the round of 16.

BET on Netherlands vs Ivory Coast HERE!

Mexico – Angola, 21:00 CET, Hanover, Group D. Mexico got off to a slow start against Iran before finding their rhythm and running out 3-1 winners. They can qualify for the last 16 by beating Angola, providing Portugal beat Iran the following day.

BET on Mexico vs Angola HERE!

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