2018 FIFA World Cup: Argentina remain dependent on Messi's magic
2014 FIFA World Cup finalists Argentina are one of the heavyweights, this time as well. The South American giants have already named their 23-man squad for the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup that kicks-off from June 14. Argentina are strong in terms of attack, but their inconsistency could be an issue. They remain heavily dependent on Lionel Messi. Here we analyze Jorge Sampaoli's squad.
Issues for Argentina
Argentina were dealt with a blow after Manchester United goal-keeper Sergio Romero was ruled out due to a knee-injury. In his place, Nahuel Guzman has been called up. The two other keepers are Willy Caballero and Franco Armani. Both lack experience at the international level.
Overall squad doesn't give a world-class feel
Argentina have certain individuals who can determine the game on their night, but the overall squad looks short. They had difficulty in qualifying for the event and needed to beat Ecuador in their final game to book a berth. The team was reliant on Barcelona talisman Messi, whose hat-trick ensured the qualification. The depth is missing in this Argentine squad.
Fazio, Otamendi heart of Argentina defense
The central defense of Argentina has experience in the form of Nicolas Otamendi and Roma's Federico Fazio. Otamendi has grown at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola and is a way better player now. Fazio had two fruitful seasons with Roma. Marcos Rojo and Gabriel Mercado will be the full-backs. The bench strength lacks the experience and that would be an issue for Sampaoli.
Mid-fielders need to come up with the goods
Sampaoli is likely to favour a three-man mid-field. Javier Mascherano is the first choice as the defensive mid-fielder alongside Sevilla's 29-year-old Ever Banega and Giovani Le Celso of Paris Saint-Germain. The other options that can have a say are Manuel Lanzini and Lucas Biglia. If Sampaoli switches to a 4-2-3-1 formation, then we can see Cristian Pavon and Eduardo Salvio fit in as wingers.
Forward line have plenty to cheer about
When you have an attack comprised of Messi, Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria and Gonzalo Higuain, 'almost' nothing can go wrong. Higuain is expected to start as the lone striker. Di Maria and Messi are set to fill in the flanks. Aguero will provide the perfect support from the bench. The attack is where Argentina are dangerous and one expects them to score.
Messi holds the cards for Argentina
Expect the star player to make a lot of inroads and cutting in from the right flank. The goal-scoring machine, once again, slammed a hat-trick in the friendly win against Haiti. He also set up a goal for Aguero. Messi is the 'messiah' for Argentina.
