Argentina did not come into the 2018 World Cup as favourites and their first match of the tournament showed why. Iceland may have been playing their first ever World Cup match but they proved to be more than just underdogs in a 1-1 draw.
Messi may have scored 44 goals this season (34 in the league to win the European Golden Shoe) but his missed penalty – saved by Hannes Halldorsson – proved to be instrumental in Iceland coming away with a point on their debut.
Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli has jumped to Messi’s defence, though. He told the press that it was unfair to pin ask Messi alone to shoulder the blame for the draw instead of the entire team taking responsibility.
“When we succeed with Argentina, everyone takes credit for it but when Argentina loses, it’s always Leo’s fault. I think that’s quite unfair.” – Jorge Sampaoli
Now, Argentina face group toppers Croatia in what will be their toughest game of the group stages.
Here’s How Argentina may line up against Croatia :
