Spain vs Argentina: 5 battles that could decide the outcome

#2 Marco Asensio vs Gabriel Mercado

Asensio is Spain's X-factor and Mercado could be in for a long evening

After giving the debutant Fabricio Bustos a chance against Italy, La Albiceleste may start with Gabriel Mercado at right back. The Sevilla fullback has been a mainstay for Sampaoli and tomorrow will be given the task of marking Asensio.

Impressing in a cameo performance against Germany and with David Silva out, Asensio may start for La Roja tomorrow. He will be desperate to prove his worth in a big game and show the manager that he can deliver for the national team as well.

Mercado was ripped apart by Asensio in Real Madrid's 5-0 win over Sevilla in December and the right-back will want to avoid a repeat of this.

He will have to keep Asensio's darting runs in check and will also have to avoid giving the Madrid man any room to deliver a cross or hit a shot on goal. The Spaniard is a game changer and Mercado will have to be on top of his game to keep the elusive playmaker in check