Argentina vs Sweden: Can Argentina make history in must-win tie?
Originally posted on Top-soccer.com
Argentina will be hoping to make history when they face Sweden in a must-win tie on Tuesday. La Albiceleste have earned just one point so far at this summer’s World Cup following a 2-2 draw with South Africa, but are still in contention for a round of 16 berth. Sweden, meanwhile, have already secured their spot in the round of 16 with a game to spare following wins over South Africa and a resounding result against Italy on matchday two.
Argentina hoping to make history…but it still may not be enough
It’s set to be an uphill battle for Argentina, who are only featuring in their second-ever World Cup. Four years ago, they were eliminated at the group stage after picking up just one point – against Japan – and now, they will need to earn what would be their first ever win against a team who are only ranked behind the USWNT and Germany as per FIFA. Against South Africa, Argentina looked set to be heading for another early exit after going two goals down, but roared back in the last 20 minute with goals from Sophia Braun and Romina Nunez.
Certainly, that result will encourage Germán Portanova’s squad ahead of this tough test. However, even a win for Argentina may not be enough to secure passage. If Italy beat South Africa, the Azzurre, who sit second spot on three points, will join Sweden in the knockout rounds. Even a draw for Italy against South Africa could help see them through at Argentina’s expense, depending on how the goal differential and head to head record pans out.
Sweden: Already through with a game to spare…what approach will they take to this match?
Meanwhile, Sweden, having already secured their spot in the next round, could technically sit back and relax. However, Peter Gerhardsson’s side will have one eye on the round of 16. Win their group, and they will face the USWNT, who are the reigning champions and despite not exactly setting the pitch alight, could cause their fair share of problems. It’s likely that the Swedes will face the Stars and Stripes, as unless if they lose to Argentina and Italy manage to absolutely crush South Africa to make up the difference following their humiliating 5-0 defeat to Sweden on matchday two, it’s the Blågult who will have their first real test in the round of 16 this weekend.
Argentina will have to make do without Miriam Mayorga, who is suspended for this game after picking up two yellow cards, but other from that, Portanova will have everyone available. It will be interesting to see if Sweden does rotate their team, as for all intents and purposes, they will finish top of their group, but this match could present a chance for Gerhardsson to give some new faces a bit of game-time ahead of this weekend’s likely showdown against the USWNT.
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