Argentina have topped the list of predicted title winners in Qatar. But after losing to Saudi Arabia in the first game, Messi and his team are now fighting for survival. Two games continue in Group C. Knockout only if you win both. Today’s game is at Lucille Stadium.
Mexico’s opponents are strong. They drew against Poland with an excellent display. In the history of the World Cup, there is a history of exciting battles between the two. No one will forget the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Messi’s World Cup debut and his goal. In the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the team coached by Diego Maradona won 3-1 thanks to Carlos Tevez.
But today there is a lot of pressure. The team, looking for an easy win against Saudi Arabia, was present at the Lusail Stadium in the first half only. Messi’s penalty goal and four offside goals. But when the Saudis came back with two goals in the second half, the football world was literally shocked. There were two reasons for the first loss. One is the weather. The battle with the Saudis was in the midday sun. While Qatar’s neighbours, Saudi Arabia, were familiar with the weather, the Latin American team found the second half unbearable in the scorching sun.
The second reason was the fickleness of the defence. Coach Lionel Scaloni is a man who gives the defense more freedom. But he backed against Saudi. The Saudis played without marking Messi. However, Mexico will not continue with the same policy. The likes of Angelo Di Maria should be able to take advantage of opportunities when Messi is marked.
