It is already make or break time for Argentina. Following a 1-1 draw with Iceland in their opening game on Saturday, Jorge Sampaoli's men must beat Croatia on Thursday to take control of Group D. Failure to do so would not yet be fatal to their chances of progression to the knockout phase, but another draw or a defeat would be another setback for a side who have not looked convincing since the Copa America Centenario in 2016.
Lionel Messi attracted unwanted headlines after his penalty miss proved costly against Iceland last time out. Yet despite that failure to convert from 12 yards, Saturday's match proved once again that Argentina are utterly dependent on their star man. Messi was forced to continually drop deep to collect possession, unable to trust the ability of central midfield duo Lucas Biglia and Javier Mascherano to progress the ball up the pitch. The Barcelona man was not at his best at the Spartak Stadium, but it was still he who was relied upon to provide spark and invention against well-organised opponents who are experts at squeezing the space in their defensive third.
Messi is so good that he is capable of winning games by himself, but it is far from an ideal situation for Argentina – particularly as even the planet's best player can do little to solve his country's defensive shakiness. The Albiceleste's attacking approach stands in stark contrast to that of Croatia, who should approach Thursday's clash with optimism rather than trepidation.
The Vatreni were workmanlike in their 2-0 win against Nigeria last weekend, but it felt as though they could have gone up through the gears had they needed to. Unlike Argentina, they have a range of attacking options: a midfield pairing of Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic is among the most creative in the competition; Mario Mandzukic is an excellent focal point and target for crosses; Andrej Kramaric can link the play as a second striker; and Ivan Perisic is a direct, speedy wide man.
Argentina have plenty to fear, then, as they head into a match which could define their World Cup.
