Predicting Alejandro Sabella's Argentina World Cup Squad

Argentina are almost certain to be one of the favourites for the 2014 Brazil World Cup. The nation boasts talent across the pitch, most notably in a forward line which can make a strong claim to be the best in international football. 

Playing in Brazil, meanwhile, means that the South Americans are almost blessed with a home tournament, as thousands of fans plan to make the trip north. 

But who exactly will they be cheering on? 

Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella has said on multiple occasions that his squad is 80 percent complete (Infobae). That would suggest there are still places up for grabs, as the final hopefuls look to impress in the six months left before Brazil 2014 kicks off. 

Goalkeepers

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After being questioned strongly in the Argentina net over the last few months, Sergio Romero had the perfect response. Against Ecuador Friday, the Monaco keeper recorded an encouraging clean sheet, the first since Colombia's visit in June. 

Doubts remain, however. Romero is still first choice, but without regular playing time for his club the No. 1 represents a calculated risk going into the World Cup. 

Mariano Andujar is well established as understudy, while the third keeper spot is a little more open. With the role traditionally going to a local player, Boca Juniors star Agustin Orion is the leading candidate seven months out. 

Behind the ex-Estudiantes man, Agustin Marchesin of Lanus, Racing's Sebastian Saja and Marcelo Barovero of River Plate are also worthy options. 

Defenders

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Without a doubt, it is the Argentina defence which poses the most uncertainty. Against Ecuador, we saw two new faces push their way in contention. 

Facundo Roncaglia and Lucas Orban both made their debuts. Fiorentina's Roncaglia was given a torrid time on the right by Jefferson Montero, while Orban fared little better against the talents of Antonio Valencia. Fortunately, a stronger showing in the middle by Federico Fernandez and Ezequiel Garay helped keep the net safe. 

Garay and Fernandez are guaranteed, barring injury, to make the cut, alongside Pablo Zabaleta, Marcos Rojo and Hugo Campagnaro. The last few defensive places will be fought keenly, with Jose Maria Basanta, Nicolas Otamendi and Cristian Ansaldi other options for Sabella.

Midfielders

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Like the attack, Argentina's midfield lineup writes itself in ideal circumstances. Javier Mascherano, Fernando Gago and Angel Di Maria are Sabella's favourites to anchor the middle of the park, providing a fluent mix of stability and attacking flair. 

Behind those three, Lucas Biglia and Ever Banega look set to take a place in the squad, having deputised encouragingly for the trio throughout the World Cup qualifiers.  The last place will be disputed amongst the likes of Jose Sosa, Augusto Fernandez and Tottenham youngster Erik Lamela who is in the driver's seat as his form in England continues to improve. 

Attackers

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If fit and uninjured, there is no doubt over who will be going to the World Cup as Argentina's first-choice strike partnership. Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero formed a formidable attacking trident throughout qualifying and form the hopes of a nation. 

Messi's recent troubles are a worry, but if the captain can shake off his muscular complaints the Barcelona star will be a huge boost to his team. 

Behind the starting trio, Ezequiel Lavezzi and Rodrigo Palacio have proved decent replacements and should make the plane too. The World Cup may have come slightly too early for Mauro Icardi. The Inter starlet may see Maxi Rodriguez jump in front of both him and Ricky Alvarez for the final spot, the versatility of the Newell's man who can play up front or in midfield tipping the balance in his favour. 

Argentina's Predicted 2014 World Cup Squad

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Goalkeepers: Sergio Romero, Mariano Andujar, Agustin Orion. 

Defenders: Pablo Zabaleta, Federico Fernandez, Ezequiel Garay, Marcos Rojo, Hugo Campagnaro, Jose Basanta, Facundo Roncaglia, Nicolas Otamendi. 

Midfielders: Javier Mascherano, Fernando Gago, Angel Di Maria, Lucas Biglia, Ever Banega, Erik Lamela. 

Attack: Lionel Messi (Captain), Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero, Ezequiel Lavezzi, Rodrigo Palacio, Maxi Rodriguez.