Could Latin giants Argentina, who were among the title favorites, be knocked out in the first round of the Qatar World Cup? Argentina fans around the world are worried. Argentina lost against Saudi Arabia in a game where they were sure to win in Group C. They stunned Argentina by two goals to one. This is a shock that neither the Argentine team nor the fans even thought of.
A shock defeat against Saudi Arabia has also left Argentina’s knockout round chances in the balance. Argentina have two matches left in the group. The opponents in the next matches are the dangerous Mexico and the capable of overthrowing Poland. Only two teams from the group can reach the pre-quarters. Let’s take a look at Argentina’s knockout round prospects.
Argentina’s next match is against Mexico on the 26th and they will face Poland in the final game on 30th. Both these matches are equally crucial for Argentina team. They have to win both matches so they will get six points. Because of this, Argentina is not guaranteed pre quarters.
The three teams in the group have a chance of getting six points. If that happens, some team will have to return home. The first two places in the group will be determined by goal difference.
If Argentina lose one of the two remaining matches in the group, the chances of the knockout round will become more difficult. A win and a draw will give Argentina four points in the remaining matches. If that happens, the future of Argentina will depend on the results of other matches in the group.
If Argentina progress by finishing second in the group, things will get tough in the pre quarters. Argentina may also have to face the current champions France in the knockout round. France defeated Argentina 4-3 in the pre-quarters of the last World Cup happened in 2018.
