Former Argentina international Ossie Ardiles has backed the nation's current crop of players to reach the final of this summer's World Cup.

Spearheaded by Barcelona talisman Lionel Messi, the Argentines are among the favourites with the bookmakers to get their hands on the trophy for a third time.

Reflecting on those odds, Ardiles believes that they are justified and has claimed that hosts Brazil will be their most likely opponents in the final.

"I'd definitely tip Argentina as potential winners, they've got all the odds on their side this time," the 61-year-old told FIFA's official website. "I think they will face Brazil in a dramatic final. Even so, there are several other teams that could play major roles in the competition, such as holders Spain, Germany, Italy and England."

Ardiles was a member of the Argentine squad that won the World Cup back in 1978.