World Cup 2018: 5 players who make the difference for Argentina

#3 Nicolas Otamendi

Otamendi playing for Argentina in a pre-World-Cup friendly

The Manchester City central defender would be playing at the heart of the defence for his national side in Russia. La Albiceleste haven't been traditionally known for their defensive capabilities nor is Argentina renowned for producing world-class defenders, but one needs to balance all departments of the squad in order to clinch the biggest prize in world football.

Otamendi had a fantastic season with Manchester City, winning the Premier League and the League Cup. In the 2017/2018 Premier League season with City, Otamendi featured in 34 out of the 38 matches and scored four goals for the club. He made over 190 recoveries and boasted a tackle success rate of 75%.

The 30-year-old defender has featured in 54 games for the Argentine National Side and his contributions to the defensive side of the game would be highly crucial in determining the duration of Argentina's stay in Russia.

While Mascherano is busy linking up with the higher lines, Otamendi's responsibilities include; formulating and maintaining offside traps, clearing dangerous balls and man-marking some of the world's most prolific forwards. Nico made his World Cup debut in South Africa. Having been left out of the squad for the 2014 World Cup, Russia would be Otamendi's second 'Mundial', and most likely his last. He certainly has the experience, and the skills to defend Argentina's goal.