Iran and Argentina are off to challenge each other today for a possible slot in the Knockout Round of 16.
The widely-acknowledged favourites, Argentina had a winning start against Bosnia and Herzegovina at 2-1. Though it did suffice for a victory, it was a pretty weak one.
Albiceleste team boss, Alejandro Sabella, has great players in his team, in the name of Sead Kolasinac, Fernando Gago, Maxi Rodriguez, Angel Di Maria, Carlos Tevez, Javier Mascherano, and ultimately, team captain Lionel Messi.
Though the great star quality in the team is evident, their lack of teamwork could be crucial for the upcoming matches. In their last game against Bosnia, they took 65 minutes to score two goals. And to think that Bosnia had minimum World Cup experience compared to the Dark Horses!
Also, Argentina is quite suffering from striker Rodrigo Palacio's absence on the field. However, Sabella is thinking of changing their tactics to suit Iran's.
On the other hand, Iran defended well against their Nigerian opponents in their World Cup curtain raiser. However, the game is perceived by many as a boring, goalless draw. The Iranians are very much unappreciated by their work there, only Carlos Quieroz was optimistic about it, saying it had answered his prayers.
Placing 43rd in FIFA's World Cup Rankings, the Iranian men may have accepted the fact that Argentina's firepower is too much for their well-scripted defences.
"We have to enjoy it and follow the coach's instructions to the letter," striker Reza Ghoochannejhad said. "We've got absolutely nothing to lose in this match."
This is just their second time meeting in a World Cup. The first was way back in 1977, and it ended in a 1-1 draw.
There is no doubt that Argentina can beat Iran, but it will not be as easy as a 10-0. The score will more likely be 3-1.
Moreover, if Argentina qualify for the Knockout Stage, they must really improve on their strategy to make their World Cup dreams come true.
