World Cup 2018: 5 intriguing games from the group stage

Modified Jun 15, 2018 16:43 GMT

Portugal v Spain - UEFA EURO 2012 Semi Final — Cristiano Ronaldo will face off against Spain once again

#2: Argentina vs Iceland - Group D - 16 June

FBL-WC-2018-ECU-ARG — Can Lionel Messi power Argentina past underdogs Iceland?

Iceland were, of course, the surprise package at Euro 2016, as they kept Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal quiet before upsetting a David Alaba-led Austria and most famously, England, en route to a Quarter-Final defeat by France.

Russia 2018 will be their first World Cup but their organisation, heart and willingness to work hard makes them a tricky side for anyone to handle. More of their players are now plying their trade in top European leagues, and don’t forget they finished above Croatia in qualifying.

Argentina meanwhile are usually considered amongst the favourites for any World Cup, but even with Lionel Messi leading the line that doesn’t seem to be the case this time. They stumbled through qualification, losing to Ecuador, Bolivia and Paraguay along the way, and had to rely on a Messi hat-trick in their final game to avoid being condemned to a playoff spot.

While they do have one of the world’s best in Messi – as well as other huge talents like Sergio Aguero and Paulo Dybala – their defence this time is notably weak and they recently lost goalkeeper Sergio Romero to injury too. Could a big upset in favour of Iceland be on the cards on the opening weekend of the World Cup? Stranger things have happened.

About the author

Scott is a veteran MMA writer with over two decades of experience, including his ongoing tenure in Sportskeeda, which began seven years ago. He has written over 3000 pieces for the organization, while also covering football. Before joining Sportskeeda, Scott wrote articles for websites like The Oratory and Inside Pulse MMA.

Scott has a degree in history, which drives his research skills and helps him compile accurate information. His long stint in the field helps Scott provide a clear take on important topics, such as the criticism of promotions regarding fighter pay. While he feels fighters deserve a bigger revenue share, he doesn’t want MMA to suffer with purse-split issues.

Scott’s work has been previously reshared by the former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman. He uses credible sources, such as the UFC’s official website, during the writing process.

His dedication to MMA writing won him the Feature Writer of the Month award for Sportskeeda in November 2021.

Outside of work, Scott likes to go to the gym, walk his dog, and travel.

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Edited by Kishan Prasad