Analysis of the first round of fixtures of the World Cup contenders

Argentina - Group D

La Albiceleste starting 11 against Iceland.

With such a wealth of attacking options, finding the right balance is always difficult. After struggling during qualification and qualifying by winning the last game of their campaign the pressure was on the Messi and his men to deliver against the fan favorites Iceland. Maybe to find the right balance Jorge Sampaoli decided to start with a 4-4-1-1 with Messi, Aguero and Di Maria starting as Dybala and Higuain were on the bench. Despite all the chances they created they managed to find the back of the net just once against Halldorsson who also saved a penalty from Messi just after the hour mark. A player of Messi's caliber is certain to shrug it off and be back to his best but overall their attack certainly has to be more efficient.

It was a huge surprise that Sampaoli decided not to use Dybala as a sub and bring on Higuain with just 6 minutes left to play. With the attacking talent he had at his disposal he was expected to throw everything against Iceland's defense but for some reason, he chose against it. Maybe he was protecting his defense knowing they are not among the best in the world but with Otamendi, Mascherano, and Rojo in the team it was a gamble worth taking. They will certainly face a tough test against Croatia with Modric, Rakitic and Perisic looking good in their opening game. Mandzukic will have to be closely watched by Otamendi as he is dangerous in the air.

Performance Rating - 4/10