Introduction
La Albiceleste, also known as the white and sky blue, made their way through to the round of 16 following an early scare against Saudi Arabia. After which, they turned a corner and produced consecutive 2-0 victories over South American rivals Mexico, and a resilient European outfit in Poland.
This write-up will analyze various takeaways from Argentina's group-stage matches ahead of their clash against Australia on Saturday night.
(Messi was a relieved man after scoring a memorable goal in a must-win game against Mexico)
Scaloni's Adaptability
After Argentina's loss to Saudi Arabia on the 22nd of November, Lionel Scaloni faced a hurricane of criticism regarding the team's incapacity to break down a mid-block 4-4-2 and defensive frailties that led to conceding two goals.
Clouds of doubt started to circle the gaffer's ability, and the Argentinian fans wondered whether it was their turn to be the big-name exit from the World Cup group stages.
However, that was not meant to be, and Scaloni showed his tactical flexibility by making five changes ahead of their match against Mexico.
But it did not completely go as planned.
Though his side controlled proceedings with 58% possession, they did not generate many high-quality chances (0.3 expected goals). Instead, they relied on the brilliance of Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez, who produced two stunning finishes.
(Enzo Fernandez announced himself on the biggest stage after an incredible finish in his first start at the World Cup)
Realizing that he had not found a sustainable structure, Scaloni switched things up again for the match against Poland. He made four changes with the objective of creating more chances, as Argentina had to win to ensure a first-place finish in group C.
And it worked.
Scaloni's men won the match 2-0 with an xG (expected goals) of 3.5 - the third-highest xG by a team so far this tournament (according to FBref).
Heading into the knockout stages of the tournament, make sure to keep an eye out for the Argentinian manager's tactical decisions and tweaks.
Group Stage Data
In this section of the article, we will look at some of the statistics of the Argentinian team.
Rodrigo De Paul, Emi Martinez, and Lionel Messi lead the chart, having played the full 90 minutes for three games. Also, Lionel Scaloni has used his squad depth by giving minutes to 21 players but has shown his faith in 11 players by giving them more than 50% of the total available minutes.
With Argentina's troubles offensively in the first two games, do not be surprised if Julian Alvarez keeps his spot for the tie against Australia.
Apart from getting on the scoresheet in his first start for the team, the chart above indicates that he stands out with his shooting proficiency. Not only does Alvarez take the highest volume of shots per game, but he also ranks first in shots on target (percentage of shots that are on target - showing the quality of shots attempted).
It would not be a surprise to the ones who have watched all three Argentina matches to notice that Messi was the outlet through which most progressive passes were made. According to the data, he makes almost twice the amount of progressive passes than any other teammate.
The data sheet above hints at what Argentina's attacking lineup will be for their next match.
To unlock a defensive team like Australia, they will need their most creative players on the pitch. So, we could see an attacking three of Messi, Di Maria, and Alvarez. And a midfield three consisting of Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister, with Rodrigo De Paul screening the defence behind them.
How do you utilize Messi?
Having one of the greats like Lionel Messi at your disposal means that you have to try your best to put him in situations where he can express his strongest attributes. And Scaloni has figured out how to do so within the three group-stage games.
Against Saudi Arabia, Messi played with Lautaro Martinez in front, and a Di Maria-Gomez combination provided the width. But he found himself deeper than he would have liked. And thereby, had few contributions in the opposition's defensive third.
(Messi's touch map VS Saudi Arabia)
In the second match, Scaloni altered the midfield and stuck with Lautaro Martinez up top. But it still was not the perfect solution. Messi's touches were higher than in the match prior. But, he was restricted to just two touches in Mexico's box.
(Messi's touch map VS Mexico)
However, Scaloni found the answer with his set-up against Poland. The attack included Messi, Alvarez, and Di Maria in a front three, with Messi and Alvarez rotating roles as left-wingers and false 9 strikers.
(Messi's touch map VS Poland)
Though it may not be a faultless remedy, the last result shows that it could be the answer to Argentina's recent creative drought.
Conclusion
Most teams that qualified have also faced problems, so it should not be a huge point of worry for the Argentinians that things have not gone smoothly. With two clean sheets, 5 goals in 3 matches, and Messi on top of his game, Argentina still have a shot at the crown.
The team has made it through the group relatively unscathed, but they will need to ensure that their swords are sharper than ever before they head into the knockout stages.
It is do-or-die from on and there is no turning back.
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