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We’ve written this Argentina Preview: World Cup 2018 to share our insight about La Albiceleste – Their strengths and weaknesses, likely starting lineup, the 23 man-squad and much more.
Argentina Preview: World Cup 2018
Full Squad
Goalkeepers: Nahuel Guzman, Willy Caballero, Franco Armani
Defenders: Gabriel Mercado, Nicolas Otamendi, Federico Fazio, Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Rojo, Marcos Acuna, Cristian Ansaldi, Eduardo Salvio
Midfielders: Javier Mascherano, Angel Di Maria, Ever Banega, Lucas Biglia, Gio Lo Celso, Maximiliano Meza, Enzo Perez
Forwards: Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala, Cristian Pavon
Manager: Jorge Sampaoli
Captain: Lionel Messi
Best Finish: Winners (1978, 1986)
Likely starting lineup
Analysis
While many are disappointed by the failure of Italy, the Netherlands and Chile to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the prospect of Argentina not being at this tournament is almost unfathomable.
But in qualifying it was close, as the Albiceleste were one game—away at Ecuador—from elimination. Thankfully for Jorge Sampaoli and a fanatical football nation, in Lionel Messi they have a player with the mindset and talent needed to pull them through.
Ahead of the competition itself, even Messi has played down the chances of this Argentina team in Russia, as they have a number of deep-rooted issues within the side despite their individual talent. They will, as they have done in recent years, rely heavily on his influence.
That fact manifested on the field in March when Argentina met Spain in a friendly without Messi. The South Americans’ lack of cohesion and leadership showed, as La Roja ran their opponents ragged in a 6-1 win. It was an indication of how this team has regressed since reaching the final four years ago.
Still, as is always the case with Argentina, there’s potential for this team to be devastating in the attacking third should it click. After all, any nation capable of leaving out Mauro Icardi should be feared…
Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/argentina-preview-world-cup-2018
Author : Matt Jones
Publish date : 2024-04-04 21:45:04
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