How we expect Argentina to line up against Brazil in Beijing.
New Argentina manager Gerardo Martino takes his side to Beijing this afternoon to face arch rivals Brazil in what should be a fascinating international friendly.
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Here is how we expect Martino’s men to line up against the Selecao:
GK) Sergio Romero – Was first choice under Alejandro Sabella at the World Cup and still seems to be Martino’s man in goal.
RB) Pablo Zabaleta – The Manchester City man is a reliable and dependable performer for both club and country.
CB) Martin Demichelis – Zabaleta’s club teammate started Martino’s first game in charge of Argentina – their fine win in Dusseldorf.
CB) Nicolas Otamendi – Otamendi’s fine start to life since joining Valencia could see him given the nod ahead of Swansea’s Federico Fernandez.
LB) Marcos Rojo – Manchester United’s summer signing is Argentina’s only obvious option at left back, where he played at the World Cup.
DCM) Javier Mascherano – Mascherano’s ability to shield the defence is vital to the way that Argentina choose to play.
CM) Enzo Perez – Another player who was brought into the team against Germany and did well enough to keep his place.
CM) Lucas Biglia – Much like Perez, Lazio star Biglia was drafted in for the Germany game and did a fine job in the centre.
ARM) Angel di Maria – Nominally playing on the right, di Maria is likely to operate in something of a free role behind the striker.
ALM) Lionel Messi – The Argentina captain and talisman will also play in something of a free role and will be expected to create for his team.
SC) Sergio Aguero – Manchester City star Aguero seems to have himself fit and firing and is likely to start for Argentina in Beijing.