World Cup 2018: 5 South American teams who could win in Russia

#4 Argentina

Argentina got to the final in Brazil 2014 and are looking to go step further in Russia

Despite being somewhat maligned, it is worth remembering that Argentina reached the final of the 2014 World Cup, where they narrowly lost out to Germany in the final. They did not receive many plaudits, Argentina finished runners up without being particularly spectacular.

Under the guidance of head coach Jorge Sampaoli, they have someone with the tactical knowledge and experience of having coached a top level international side at a World Cup.

Sampaoli managed Chile to a Copa America title and were impressive in Brazil in 2014, playing some attractive football along with an excellent pressing game.

With the likes of Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain, Paulo Dybala and Angel Di Maria, Argentina have one of the most impressive forward lines in world football.

They have been criticized in the past for being a team of individuals, but under the guidance of Sampaoli, they can be transformed into a team unit, this would mean trouble for other countries.

Despite being described by many as being 'top heavy', Argentina conceded just 4 goals at the 2014 World Cup. The Argentine's also had the second best defense in qualification, conceding just 16 goals in the CONMBOL group.

With Marcos Rojo and Nicolas Otamendi at the back, La Albiceleste have a solid back line and can draw on the experience of veteran Javier Mascherano.

This could very well be Lionel Messi's last World Cup, and having never won the trophy before he will be hungry to push his team to glory this year. Argentina have the ability and the know how, this year could finally be their moment.