Team Preview – Argentina
Has there ever been a better chance for Argentina too win a World Cup since 1986? In my opinion, No.
The team are coming off a successful qualifying campaign and with individuals such as Lionel Messi keen to prove a point, there is no reason why come mid July they will be hoisting the trophy. The key to that, well simply getting the ball in the net as much as possible cause if there is one weakness in this side, it would be the lack of world cup experience at the back.
Manager: So who is the man in charge of leading this team to glory? Alejandro Sabella took over from Sergio Batista after what turned out to be a miserable 2011 Copa America on home soil. Sabella (the former Sheffield United midfielder) couldn’t have done more to impress in finishing first in the South American qualifying group and impressing in friendly matches against high quality opponents. His team will line up in a 4-3-3 formation which tries to maximize the influence of Messi while not forgetting the attacking talents of Aguerro and Higuain, so basically expect them to line up with Messi in behind those two. If they do fall behind however don’t be completely surprised to see the team switch to a back 3 with Sabella previously experimenting with such a system.
Star Player: Lionel Messi Arguably the world’s best player, the Barcelona star has a lot to prove in this world cup. Up until this point he has failed to make the same mark on international football as he has domestically and this obviously gives him further motivation individually. However, Messi hasn’t been in the greatest form this season with injuries contributing but maybe that will give him the boost of which his countryman require. He is the Captain, talisman and key player of the side and will never have a better chance to state the claim on being the greatest player ever to play the beautiful game.
Who to look out for:
Angel Di Maria: The Real Madrid star will be coming into the competition full of confidence having played a part in successful champion’s league campaign. Although uncertain of his club future given several rumours currently floating around, Di Maria will play a crucial role in the team’s campaign. The players work rate will play a crucial role in linking the defensive side of the team to the attack. This will be the midfielder’s second world cup and will be keen to impress not only for his country but too also increase his value as the player has also admitted his future is uncertain.
Gonzalo Higuain: In a team dominated by Messi, the other attacking pair are set to enjoy this world cup. Higuain who now plays his trade in the Serie A for Napoli comes into the world cup having scored 17 goals in 32 games provides a crucial option particularly if a team does somehow figure out how to close down Messi. Crucially he was the Argentinian top scorer at the previous world cup but that doesn’t mean he wants that responsibility to fall on him again although he has proven he can handle it.
The Draw: Argentina face an easy group stage given their status as one of the favourites leading into the tournament only having to play Iran, Nigeria and Bosnia and Herzegovina. They are expected to top this group comfortably and face a round of 16 match against Ecuador or France. They’re main challenge in my opinion won’t come till they potentially face Germany in the latter knockout stages and if they progress a final against Brazil beckons.
Prediction: 2nd Place (Finalists)
FTSAUS Fact: Argentina had a stunning 85% passing accuracy rate in qualifying for this world cup.
Previous World Cup best appearance: Winners 1978, 1986
