After an embarrassing loss to Ecuador at home, Argentina will be fired up to come up with an improved performance as they take on Paraguay in the world cup qualifier at Estadio Defensores del Chaco on Tuesday.
Paraguay, on the other hand, are upbeat as they come into the match with a victory under their belt against Venezuela. However, they will be aware of the tough task when they face Argentina, who are not only a superior team but also hungry to register their first points on the table.
Argentina, who missed the services of Lionel Messi due to a ligament injury, against Ecuador, have been dealt a major blow as they are also going to miss their star forward, Sergio Aguero, with the Manchester City player picking up an injury against Ecuador, ruling him out of the fixture. Hence, the onus primarily falls on Carlos Tevez, who needs to play an integral role on Tuesday against Paraguay.
Tevez, who believes that there was lack of attitude against Ecuador, is aware of improving their record on Tuesday.
"The qualifiers are different and it became clear on Thursday that they are harder than a Copa America match or a friendly," Goal quoted Tevez as saying.
"But on Thursday there was a lack of attitude. That is what we talked about. The team did not turn up at any time and that is what most worries us. We did not make a good start to the qualifiers, but we will have another chance on Tuesday."
However, Argentina can draw inspiration from their recent record against Paraguay as they have been impressive defeating their opponents four times in their last five matches, with one ending in a draw.
It was in July that these two nations met and Argentina thumped Paraguay 6-1. Can they come up with a repeat performance? Looking at how they played against Ecuador, one has some reservations.
Paraguay's head coach, Ramon Diaz is happy with the way they started the qualifiers. They need to carry with their form if they are to qualify for the prestigious world cup in Russia.
"We wanted to start [qualifying] well, show the football world that Paraguay is back to fight again," said Diaz.
Paraguay, who will be playing at home, will be well supported by the home fans, which could play an important role in helping the team emerge victorious.
"To play against Argentina is special. It's going to be different from the other two [meetings this year]. We are at home, with our fans.
"Of course [we can win], it happened for Ecuador so Paraguay can also beat Argentina."
Where to watch live
Paraguay vs Argentina CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier is scheduled for a 9 pm local time (5.30 am IST, 1 am BST, 8 pm ET) start, with live coverage in India on Sony Six with live streaming on Livsports.
Viewers in Canada, the US, Middle East and North Africa can watch the Paraguay vs Argentina CONMEBOL World Cup qualifier live on Bein Sports, with the live stream option on Bein Sports Connect.
