class=”article_teaser__2t5do”>With both teams struggling for cutting edge at the Olympics, Al Hain-Cole doesn't expect much goalmouth action between La Rojita and Batista’s team
Spain and Argentina will go head to head for top spot in Group C when they meet at the Saitama Stadium 2002 in Wednesday’s Olympic Games clash.
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Luis de la Fuente’s men are top of the group after the opening two matches, having drawn 0-0 with Egypt before narrowly defeating Australia 1-0.
Spain vs Argentina latest odds
Spain are 10/11 (1.91) favourites with bet365 to progress to the knockout stages in first place by coming out on top once again here.
Argentina ran out emphatic 4-0 winners in their only previous Olympics encounter with this opposition at Atlanta 1996 but are 3/1 (4.00) outsiders to emerge victorious in this one, and priced at 5/2 (3.50) to earn a draw.
Spain vs Argentina team news
Oscar Mingueza and Dani Ceballos have both been ruled out of the group stage after suffering injuries in the opening 0-0 draw against Egypt.
Francisco Ortega is available once again after serving a one-match suspension for the red card he received in the opening 2-0 defeat to Australia.
Spain vs Argentina preview
Having brought a strong squad to Japan, including players like Pau Torres, Pedri, Dani Olmo and Mikel Oyarzabal, La Rojita have endured a slightly frustrating first two matches at these Olympics.
After being held to a 0-0 draw by Egypt in their opener, they did eventually score their first Olympic goal in 21 years in the 1-0 win over Australia last time out.
They can at least take encouragement from two clean sheets from two, meaning they have conceded just once in their last three matches in all competitions.
This will be cause for concern for Fernando Batista’s team, who have only scored six times in their last six matches and struggled to break down Australia in their narrow 1-0 win on Sunday.
Spain vs Argentina tips & predictions
With Spain needing only a draw to ensure safe passage into the knockout stages, odds of 17/20 (1.85) seem generous on them keeping things tight in their fourth match in a row that features under 2.5 goals.
That bet would also have paid out in four of the last five games for Argentina, who have also conceded only three times in five fixtures.
All odds correct at time of writing. Please gamble responsibly.