The all-important game is upon us. Only 90 minutes remain before Argentina either miraculously save their World Cup campaign or suffer an embarrassing.
La Albiceleste is gearing up to take on Nigeria in their final group-stage game. The South America side may be the bigger nation, but given their form, it would not be surprising to see them lose to the African side.
A disappointing 1-1 draw with Iceland in their opening game was followed by one of the most embarrassing Argentina games in recent years. Sampaoli's men locked horns with Croatia needing to bounce back but suffered a humiliating 3-0 loss.
Everyone from Messi, the defenders, the goalkeeper, and the manager left the fans fuming in what was an unforgettable defeat. Due to that result, the two-time World Cup champion now sits dead last in the table, needing a bit of luck to get through.
Croatia has already secured qualification. Nigeria, thanks to their 2-0 win over Iceland, now sits in second and could progress with a draw if Sigurdson and Co. don't win their third game by a huge margin.
All is not lost for Argentina. Leo will be keen to get his campaign rolling in order to carry them through to the next round.
Permutations
For Argentina to qualify, they must beat Nigeria. Even a draw will not suffice. Victory over the Super Eagles is the only answer. If Iceland beats Croatia, however, Messi and Co. must better their result by two clear goals to make it through.
If Sigurdson and Co. fail to win, a draw will guarantee Nigeria a spot in the round of 16. If Iceland wins, a draw would still do for the Super Eagles as long as their European rival doesn't overturn the goal difference.
Team news
After that awful 3-0 loss, change is needed in Argentina's lineup. Caballero is the likely victim after his blunder handed Croatia their opening goal, with River Plate's Franco Armani likely to deputize.
Rumors have claimed that Higuain will come in for Aguero after the Man City ace's failed attempt to get rid of Sampaoli. Others suggest that the two of them will play side-by-side, signaling a start for the Juventus ace. Elsewhere, the likes of Meza, Acuna, and Perez are tipped to be dropped.
Nigeria is likely to go with the same formation and tactics that worked so well against Iceland. Bryan Idowu is unlikely to play, though, with Tyronne Ebuehi set to be given a start instead.
Match facts
- These two sides have met eight times before, with Argentina edging out Nigeria in the head-to-head record.
- The South American giant's has recorded five wins while losing only twice.
- The last time they met, however, La Albiceleste lost 4-2 to the Super Eagles.
Match details, result and original broadcast info
Nigeria 1 - 2 Argentina
June 26, 2018 2:00pmSaint-Petersburg Stadium (Sankt-Peterburg (St. Petersburg))This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
Live TV coverage and streaming in United States
