Argentina take on Belgium on Saturday evening at the Estadio Nacional de Brasilia, with both sides looking to turn rather tame starts at the tournament into something a little more comprehensive.
The Argentines have yet to really get going in Brazil and have largely relied on the exploits of Lionel Messi, arguably still not at his best, and the input of standout efforts during games in which Alejandro Sabella's men have struggled to break teams down.
This might not be that much of a concern to the South Americans, who will believe they can improve in the more important stages, as the team were boosted by a resolute performance when they overcame Switzerland 1-0 on Tuesday.
Belgium have suffered a lot of the same problems as their opponents, with the Europeans playing more like a side of star individuals than a closely-knit unit. Much like the Argentines, though, they do still have the quality of players who are capable of turning a game on its head in a flash.
Testament to this was the late introduction of Romelu Lukaku as Belgium broke American hearts with a 2-1 extra-time win on Tuesday night. The Chelsea striker changed the tide of the game with brute strength and great awareness to take the game away from the USA.
Neither side have any major injury concerns ahead of the game, but eyes will be on the fluctuating form of Angel di Maria, who rescued his side's fortunes against the Swiss.
As for Belgium, it is expected that Lukaku will make the starting XI as they look to pull together as a side going into the final stages.
Recent form
Argentina: WWWWWW
Belgium: WWWWWW
Possible starting lineups
Argentina: Romero; Zabaleta, Rojo, Mascherano, Fernandez, Garay, Lavezzi, Gago, Higuain, Messi, Di Maria
Belgium: Courtois; Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Witsel, van Buyten, Kompany, Mirallas, Fellaini, Lukaku, De Bruyne, Hazard
Sports Mole says: 2-1
See what the Sports Mole Sofa panel has to say about the encounter below.
Christopher Dodd
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