Argentina is on the edge of an unpredictable exit from the World Cup after Croatia was able to grasp on a 3-0 victory against the two-time winners.
Jorge Sampaoli, the Argentina coach, is constantly showing failures with match plans and strategies as the team is now placed on the bottom of Group D (1 loss 1 draw). The first error was seen when Argentina drew 1-1 against Iceland when they had a great opportunity to collect 3 points. The second mistake was formed as the South American side demolished Argentina.
The match between the two teams was tight, yet both sides were showing the tendency to score and take the victory. Nevertheless, the stalemate was broken as Caballero's poor clearance gave Ante Rebic a perfect angle to score.
The Argentinian side didn't give up easily as they continued to control the ball and was able to shoot on target. Yet, Luka Modric proved himself and put the game beyond Argentina's reach. The Real Madrid midfielder dribbled across and turned to create space for a flawless shot that ended in the bottom corner of the net.
Barcelona star, Ivan Rakitić made an additional goal to wrap up the game in stoppage time.
Messi's Headache Continues
Following his missed penalty against Iceland, Lionel Messi wasn't able to perform with excellence against Croatia. Statistically, the 5 time Ballon d'Or winner, managed only 20 touches in the first half, and there was not much development in the following half.
Messi was able to get a close shot after a cross from Enzo Perez but was denied by the Danijel Subašić. Although Messi pushed his efforts to the fullest potential, Argentina's Caballero let down the team and crushed their dreams of succeeding in the World Cup.
The greatest opportunity for scoring came 10 minutes after Caballero's blunder. The substitute Gonzalo Higuain was able to cut the ball for Maximiliano Meza in the box, yet his shot was blocked by Subašić.
As Argentina continued to struggle to create chances, Messi was adding on to his failure and was unable to influence the match. At one point, the Barcelona superstar was passing back and forth with defender Mercado on the edge of his own half. Messi's frustration was clearly seen as he started to use harsh actions after he was tangled with Croatian defender Ivan Strinic.
Croatia's victory against Argentina secured a place in the 16th round comfortably. However, Argentina's ambition for winning the World Cup has heavily reduced. If Argentina wants to continue their 2018 World Cup journey they must beat Nigeria. But even that may not be adequate...
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