The first semi-final of the FIFA World Cup 2022 will witness familiar foes going against each other as the 2014 runners-up Argentina will be locking horns with the 2018 runners-up Croatia at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, on Tuesday.
Both the teams faced each other in the last edition's group stage as well where the Kockasti had come out as comfortable victors with a 3-0 win at the end. Croatia then went on to reach the final of the quadrennial tournament as well.
However, with a new look to the Croatian squad this year, it will be a much more difficult task to get the better of Lionel Messi's Argentina who have looked formidable after a shock defeat in their tournament opener.
Both teams are coming off a penalty shootout win in the quarter-finals. While Croatia got the better of 5-time winners Brazil by winning 4-2. Argentina beat the Dutch 4-3 on penalties in what was a heated encounter between the two.
Argentina team news
There are no injury concerns for the Albiceleste so far. However, Marcos Acuña and Gonzalo Montiel will miss the tie due to suspension. Papu Gomez, who has been nursing an ankle injury, may sit out once again.
Croatia Team news
Luka Modric has no injuries to worry about and has a full squad at his disposal.
Argentina vs Croatia head-to-head
Argentina: 2 wins
Croatia: 2 wins
Draws: 1
Argentina vs Croatia interesting facts
Croatia are in their second consecutive World Cup semi-final after losing to France in the 2018 World Cup final. They also have a perfect record in penalty shootouts, having come out on top in all four they have contested so far in their history.
Croatia will be looking to become the first back-to-back finalists since Brazil in 2002
Argentina captain Lionel Messi is eyeing his second World Cup final after his team lost to Germany in 2014. The World Cup trophy is the only major title missing from his collection, which includes every big club and national team title
FIFA World Cup 2022, Semifinals: Argentina vs Croatia live match time and telecast details
Date: December 14, 2022
Match time (IST): 12:30 AM
Live telecast: Sports 18 HD
Live streaming: Jio Cinemas