Odds, prediction, selection Venezuela vs. Argentina: Where to watch Lionel Messi on TV, live stream, time

CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying is underway again and Lionel Messi is back in the Argentina squad for the first time since the Copa America. Messi injured his ankle in the final of that game against Colombia, but now with another trophy in hand, the world’s top team will be looking to maintain their form. Heading into this window, Argentina maintain a narrow two-point lead at the top of the WCQ table ahead of games against Venezuela and Bolivia. La Vinotinto is in sixth place in the table, beating Brazil only on goal difference. A strong defense is keeping them afloat, but goals are needed.

Here are our storylines, how to watch the game and more:

How to watch and ratings

• Date: Thursday, Oct. | Time: 5 p.m. ET
• Location: Estadio Monumental de Maturin – Maturin, Venezuela
• Live stream: Fanaticism
• Opportunities: Venezuela +625; Draw +305; Argentina -210

Storylines

Venezuela: After three draws in their last five games, Venezuela will be looking to start converting them into wins. That’s easier said than done against Argentina, but there are reasons for Venezuela to have confidence. After only drawing at home against Uruguay, Venezuela has conceded just five goals in its last five games. Four of these were at altitude in Bolivia and the other was used against Canada in the United States. Defensively, this is a team that will be difficult for anyone in the world, even Argentina, to conquer.

Argentina: It’s rare that Argentina have to bounce back from defeats, but having the opportunity to do so when Messi is back in the lineup should make things easier. The squad has become healthier and team defense will always be a challenge for any team, but the appeal of Messi’s presence is enormous. Not only is he capable of creating his own chances, but also creating more space for his teammates, resulting in a free-flowing attack that should carry Argentina to victory.

forecast

Messi will hit the target while the defense provides enough protection to make a narrow win look easy. Choose: Venezuela 0, Argentina 2