Argentina’s life has drastically changed since those five fatal second-half minutes, leaving them at the bottom of the table and no longer being a favorite. Grudging praise for a 36-match unbeaten streak has given way to whispers about becoming the first elite team to be eliminated from Qatar 2022. A defeat would spell the end.
However, because of a goalless draw in the other Group C match, its qualification is still improbable. A day after the omnipresent Diego Maradona’s second death anniversary, there is a desire to rebuild and spread some joy. The motive is present and strong.
“As Argentinians, we always think of him on this important day. It’s a difficult day for us because he is a significant member of the national team and a global legend. But we want to spread some happiness with our performance tomorrow,” Lautaro Martinez, whose two goals on Tuesday were disallowed due to offside, remarked.
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Thankfully, Lionel Scaloni continues to trust his technique and there is still no sense of panic. “Despite what transpired in the other game, we don’t want to alter our approach. The crew is prepared to recover after that first day’s significant emotional trauma, according to the coach.
“We have evaluated our performance and may add some variables because Mexico is a top-notch club with a distinct playing style and an offensive strategy. However, our sense of style is indisputable.
Mexico also needs a victory, and Argentina has many reasons to be concerned because the Aztecs have Hirving Lozano, who is currently on fire for Maradona’s Napoli, and their former manager Tata Martino, who is plotting their demise to cause more shockwaves.
Lionel Messi was forced to drop deep by the Saudi crowding of Rodrigo De Paul, and a repeat of that tactic could result in further issues. Lautaro stated that a strategy is in place: “Mexico plays with the ball with open players, and we need to counterattack and take advantage of the chances that come our way.”
A few more modifications are anticipated, and Marcus Acuna may be added to utilise the wings, which were mainly overlooked in the previous game.
Obviously, the atmosphere in the Argentine camp is oppressive, but a victory might silence the whispers.