Will Argentina be eliminated from the World Cup if they lose against Mexico?
Many had Argentina as the favorites to win the World Cup, but their upset to Saudi Arabia means their next match against Mexico is all or nothing.
Argentina won today, and here’s what they need to qualify. In an unbelievable upset, they lost their opening game to Saudi Arabia, and that already put them in a difficult position. Then, Poland beat Saudi Arabia 2-0 this morning, meaning that Argentina will be eliminated if they lose to Mexico today. If Argentina lost this game, they would have no points, with Poland and Mexico both on four.
What happens if Argentina and Mexico tie?
Well, a draw between Argentina and Mexico would not automatically eliminate Argentina. It would put Argentina at one point, Mexico at two, Saudi Arabia at three, and Poland at four. They would have to beat Poland and overturn their goal differential to advance from there. In other words, they would have to beat Poland by at least three goals in their next match.
Another scenario could see Mexico and Saudi Arabia end in a draw, and then Argentina could beat Saudi Arabia’s goal differential.
So, a draw is better than a loss. But a win is necessary if Argentina wants to feel safe making it into the Round of 16.
Follow along with our live coverage of Argentina vs Mexico right here on AS USA. The game kicks off at 2 p.m. ET from Lusail Stadium.