2018 FIFA World Cup: 5 highly anticipated group matches

#3. Argentina vs Croatia

Will Messi star in Russia?

Argentina have been drawn in a group alongside dark horses Croatia, dangerous newcomers Iceland and always-unpredictable Nigeria. This group is considered by many to be this World Cup's 'Group of Death' and all matches will be watching. However, the most anticipated match-up of the group will undoubtedly be Argentina vs Croatia. This match will take place on 21st June at Nizhny Nodgorov.

Both teams have a bucket-load of world-class players in their squad. Argentina have arguably the greatest footballer in the world in Lionel Messi who was their saviour during the qualifiers as he took Argentina to Russia by scoring a hat-trick in their final qualifier against Ecuador in Quito. The 30-year old has been outstanding this season with 17 goals in 21 matches across all competitions so far.

Besides Messi, Argentina have a fearsome set of attackers including Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala who are complemented by top-quality players like Angel Di Maria, Javier Mascherano and Sergio Romero who overall make Argentina a very strong team.

Croatia may have taken the long route to reach the World Cup but they sure have no dearth when it comes to talented players. Mario Mandzukic and Nikola Kalinic haven’t been prolific lately but they could be a menace to any opposition. However, Croatia’s strength lies in their midfield which has Luka Modric and the two Ivans, Rakitic and Perisic who have been brilliant this season so far.

In Domagoj Vida, Vedran Corluka and Dejan Lovren, Croatia have an experienced and reliable defense and they also have a terrific custodian in Danijel Subasic.

Argentina and Croatia have clashed four times so far with Argentina winning twice while Croatia have won once in 2006. Nevertheless, this encounter will be a thrilling one to watch.