The Argentines have topped the list of predicted winners of the title in Qatar. But after losing to Saudi Arabia in the first match, Messi and his team are now fighting for survival. Two matches remain in Group C. Knockout only if you win both. Today’s match is at Lucille Stadium.
Opponents Mexico are strong. They earned a draw against Poland with an outstanding display. In the history of the World Cup, there is a history of exciting battles between the two. No one will forget the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Messi’s World Cup debut and his goal. In the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the team coached by Diego Maradona won 3-1 thanks to Carlos Tevez.
But today there is a lot of pressure. The team, which was looking for an easy victory against Saudi Arabia, was present at the Lusail Stadium only in the first half. Messi’s penalty goal and four offside goals. But when the Saudis came back with two goals in the second half, the football world was literally shocked. There were two reasons for the first defeat. One is the weather. The fight with the Saudis was in the midday sun. While Qatar’s neighbors Saudi Arabia were familiar with the weather, the Latin American team found the second half unbearable in the scorching sun.
The second reason was the volatility of the defense. Coach Lionel Scaloni is a man who gives the defense more freedom. But it backfired against Saudi. The Saudis played without marking Messi. Mexico, however, will not continue the same policy. The likes of Angelo Di Maria should be able to capitalize on opportunities when Messi is marked.