Brazil will try to hit us on counter, says Argentina coach

Brazil and Argentina face a crucial high-profile game on Thursday.

Buenos Aires: Argentina coach Gerardo Martino expects Brazil to adopt a counter-attacking game plan when the sides meet in their World Cup qualifier here on Thursday.

Brazil are said to begin the match with Bayern Munich winger Douglas Costa alongside Neymar in attack, prioritizing transitional speed ahead of possession, reported Xinhua news agency.

"I think it will be a match in which attacking should permit us to have less defensive worries," Martino told a press conference on Wednesday.

"It will determine if we are going to suffer more or less from quick breaks by Brazil, who will surely wait for us in their own half."

Argentina will be without injured forwards Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez for the match at the Monumental stadium.

Their absence has created a new chance for Gonzalo Higuain, who returns after being overlooked for the Albiceleste's first two qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay.

Higuain is equal top scorer in Italy's Serie A this season with nine goals from 12 matches.

"His call-up comes at a good time for him in the Italian league and we hope that he can show that form for the national team," Martino said.

Argentina are currently seventh in the South American zone standings while Brazil are fifth.