Knock Out Stage clash: France vs Argentina, Kickoffs, channel, possible lineups, prediction and betting odds

One of the most awaited matches of World Cup 2018: Knock out stage is on the way as France will go head-to-head with Argentina this Saturday. The winner of Group C, France, and Group D's runner-up Argentina are likely to smash the highlights in the opening game of Round of 16.

The winner of this match will be seeking their way to the quarterfinals, where the winner from another big clash: Uruguay vs Portugal will stand up against further to fight for the place in semi-finals.

Kickoff-time, Venue, and Broadcasting

The opening knockout stage match between France and Argentina will be held at Kazan Arena on Saturday, June 30, while the kickoff is scheduled at 3 pm BST.

Live action of the match can be enjoyed on ITV One and BBC One and can be streamed live online via BBC iPlayer and the ITV Hub. Also, the viewers from the country with FIFA membership can enjoy the clash at national channels in their television.

Possible Lineups

As far no reports of France injury concerns is out, while for Argentina, coach Jorge Sampaoli has some key decisions to make, whether to restore Sergio Aguero in the lineup at the expense of Gonzalo Higuain.

However, what matters the most is the opinion of Argentina's captain Messi, the team reportedly threatened Sampoli to take their tactical suggestion into consideration too, as they nearly fell out group stage in the match against Nigeria.

The possible lineup shows up as:

France XI: Lloris, Pavard, Varane, Umtiti, Hernandez, Kante, Pogba, Mbappe, Griezmann, Matuidi, Giroud

Argentina XI: Armani, Mercado, Otamendi, Rojo, Tagliafico, Perez, Mascherano, Banega, Di Maria, Messi, Aguero

History and Predictions

It's the 5th time the 2 nations are facing each other, as they have already met 4 times before where Argentina became victorious every time. The last match took place in 2009, Argentina netting 2-0 against France.

For the opening K.O. stage this Saturday, out of 100% participants, 40% predicted Argentina's win, while the vote for the match draw and France's win is 30% for each.

Betting Odds

As per Betfair, the bet point for Argentina's win is 3.6, for the match draw is 3.0 and for France's win is 2.4. This means if you are to place $100 for Argentina's win, you will get $360 if Argentina wins, and on the other hand, $300 and $240 will be provided if your bet for a draw and France's win comes true.

The Betfair show up the probability of:

• France to qualify: 13/20
• Argentina to qualify: 5/4
• Lionel Messi to score first: 4/1
• France to win 3-2: 45/1

Note: Odds subject to change over time.