Argentina turned their attention to round-of-32 opponents Cape Verde after a dominant group stage, stressing the African side will pose a tough challenge despite suggestions their route to the later rounds could be straightforward.
Tag: Argentina World Cup Soccer
For all the scrutiny surrounding the World Cup’s expanded 48-team format, with the advantage its uneven scheduling may give sides playing later in the final round, Austria and Algeria offered a reminder of the sport’s unpredictability on Saturday.
As Argentina move into the knockout phase, Scaloni will know the importance of keeping his entire squad match-fit and focussed, lest injuries or suspensions require changes.
Substitute Messi, who came on at the hour-mark, fired a low free kick netting in a seventh match in a row at the global finals.
Defending champions Argentina can take a major step towards the knockout stage when they face Austria in their second World Cup Group J match on Monday, after both sides opened their campaigns with convincing victories.
Worries over visas, high costs and gun violence prompted skepticism. Free soda refills and chicken wings in ranch dressing prompted delight.