There aren’t many outstanding tough groups but if you had to choose a group of death, Group D would be it. Of course, Argentina are favourites to top the standings, followed by Croatia but Iceland proved in the Euro 2016 that they are a force to be reckoned with despite their tiny population, while Nigeria certainly have the quality to cause an upset or two.
However, we’re not here to discuss Group D. This is all about Argentina’s opening clash against Iceland. Let’s get to it!
FIFA World Cup
Argentina vs Iceland
Group D
Spartak Stadium
Saturday 16 June
15:00
To Win
Argentina 3/10
Draw 37/10
Iceland 10/1
Argentina
Argentina’s road to the 2018 showpiece has been a rocky one to say the least. La Albiceleste left it late, qualifying for the World Cup in their final clash against Ecuador with the messiah himself, Lionel Messi, banging in a hat-trick in their 3-1 victory.
Jorge Sampaoli’s men finished third on the CONMEBOL log behind leaders Brazil and second-placed Uruguay with the former finishing 13 points ahead of Argentina. La Albiceleste will know they have their work cut out for them if they are to be crowned 2018 champions of the world and after their disappointment in the 2014 finals – losing out 1-0 to Germany in extra-time – Argentina will be desperate for another shot at the title.
Messi finished the qualifiers as Argentina’s top goalscorer with seven goals and the little maestro will be the focal point of a lethal attacking team which boasts the likes of Paulo Dybala, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain.
Iceland
Iceland shocked the footballing world after knocking England out of Euro 2016 in the Round of 16 to make the quarter-finals. Their passionate fans will no doubt get behind the team once again when they take on the mighty Argentina.
However, Strakarnir Okkar, as they are affectionately known, topped their World Cup qualifying group ahead of Croatia, who were also drawn in Group D. Iceland managed seven wins from 10 matches in their qualifying campaign but have stuttered in friendly/warm up games heading into the prestigious tournament.
Captain Aron Gunnarsson will be looking to lead this well-organised team to glory but that is easier said than done. Their biggest name on the pitch is undoubtedly, Gylfi Sigurdsson, who can turn a game on its head with his delightful set-piece deliveries, vision and ability to create space.
Probable line-ups:
Argentina: 4-3-3
Caballero; Salvio, Otamendi, Fazio, Tagliafico; Mascherano, Lo Celso; Lanzini, Messi, Di Maria; Higuain.
Iceland: 4-4-2
Halldorsson; Saevarsson, Arnason, R.Sigurdsson, Skulason; Gudmundsson, Sigurdsson, Bjarnason, Gunnarsson; Finnbogason, Sigurdarson.
Prediction: Both Halves Under 1.5 Goals (12/10)
This one is tough to call but Iceland are solid defensively and with their hard-working team, they know how to frustrate teams – even without the ball. I still believe Argentina will edge it but I’m predicting a tight and cagey affair. Get on the Both Halves Under 1.5 goals market at 12/10.
Written by Aaron Crowie