World Cup 2018: 3 things we learned from Argentina's group games

#2 A mixed group stage campaign

Argentina had mixed fortunes in their three Group D fixtures at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Talisman Lionel Messi missed a crucial penalty, which could have won them their opening Group D fixture against Iceland at the Spartak Stadium in Moscow.

A victory at the Russian capital would have eased the pressure on Messi and Argentina going into their next game, but unfortunately it wasn't the case.

The second group fixture against the Croatian side comprising of some of the best in the business - Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic, Mario Mandzukic and Dejan Lovren turned out to be a disaster for Albiceleste as they were completely outplayed by the European side who put three past the hapless Argentine defense.

Though it was 0-0 at the break, Argentina's fortunes changed in the second-half. Goal keeper Willy Caballero's blunder gifted the Croatians their first goal.

From there it all went down-hill for Argentina as their not so confident players failed to step up and deliver. After that 3-0 drubbing at Nizhny Novgorod, not many fancied their Round of 16 qualification hopes.

But a 2-1 win over Nigeria on Tuesday at Saint Petersburg, and Croatia's win over Iceland on the same night (by the same margin) earned them a spot in the knockouts.

Thus, with one win, one loss and one draw it was a mixed Group stage campaign for Argentina who will encounter the mighty French in the Round of 16.