Argentina confirmed starting lineup for game 3 of the group stage vs Poland

You can follow the live action of the crucial game between Messi’s Argentina and Lewandowski’s Poland on As.com.

As they head into the final game of their group, both teams know that nothing less than a win will do if they hope to advance to the round of 16. Here’s a look at the starting 11s for Argentina and Poland as well as other points to note.

Argentina vs Poland: The story so far

Following their shock opening loss to Saudi Arabia, the ‘Albiceleste’ knew that they needed to respond with a win and so they did in their second game against Mexico. It’s worth noting that in the first half of that game, Argentina struggled, but such problems are always temporary when you’ve got Leo Messi in your ranks. Indeed, a strong defensive performance by ‘El Tri’ was brought to an end by a moment of Messi magic and then truly confirmed by a wonderful goal from substitute Enzo Fernandez.

Then there was Poland, who drew with Mexico in the opener but managed to lift themselves to victory over a plucky Saudi Arabia side in their second game. In truth, Saudi Arabia would have been well frustrated having missed a chance to qualify, but they could do nothing about Tomasz Szczęsny’s performance in the Polish goal. Indeed, it was the Juventus man’s stellar penalty save that preserved Poland’s foothold in the game. Goals from Piotr Zielinski and Robert Lewandowski completed the victory and with that, we now have what is essentially a ‘winner takes all’ final in Group C.

Argentina: Who to watch?

While all eyes will undoubtedly be on Messi, it’s worth noting that in their last game, Argentina’s talisman was forced to drop very deep to collect the ball and in turn orchestrate attacks. In truth the Albiceleste’s midfield didn’t give a good account of itself against Mexico. That changed almost instantly when Enzo Fernandez was introduced to the game. The Benfica man’s presence in midfield brought a degree of composure that had been missing from the evening’s proceedings and it wasn’t long before Argentina began to control the game. Head coach Scaloni would do well to start him against Poland.

Poland Who to watch?

While Poland have a massive star of their own in the form of Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski, it was another player who took the spotlight in their victory over Saudi Arabia. Napoli midfielder Piotr Zielinski was instrumental in his country’s win as he moved about the pitch with industry and poise at all times. His interplay with Lewandowski and Milik was impressive to watch and indeed produced two goals, one of which he scored himself Rest assured, if the Polish are to get anything out of this huge game, it will largely come down to Zielinski’s ability to impose himself on the match.

Argentina vs Poland: The head-to-head

Here’s a look at the series history between the two sides as they prepare for what will be the 12th meeting between them:

Argentina vs Poland: Confirmed Starting 11s

Argentina (4-3-3): Martinez; Molina, Otamendi, Romero, Acuña; De Paul, Fernandez, Mac Allister; Di Maria, Messi, Álvarez

Poland (4-4-2): Szczesny; Cash, Glik, Kiwior, Bereszynski; Zielinski, Bielik, Krychowiak, Frankowski; Swiderski, Lewandowski