Argentina will face Poland in their final group stage match of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 on Wednesday. The two-time World Cup champions are in danger of being knocked out of the tournament if they lose this fixture. Poland, on the other hand, need only a point to secure a place in the Round of 16. Let’s take a look at the Argentina vs Poland match preview, schedule, probable line-ups, and prediction.
Qatar 2022 Match Preview: Argentina vs Poland
Argentina were pre-tournament favorites to win their third World Cup in Qatar 2022. However, their dream of winning the third World Cup suffered a major setback after losing the first match against Saudi Arabia. They have kept their dream alive by winning the second group-stage fixture against Mexico 2-0. But the team's overall performance and coach Lionel Scaloni’s tactics haven’t been fruitful in the first two matches. Argentina need a firm victory over Poland, which could be a real statement to their favorite rivals.
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Poland, on the other hand, will likely be in a defensive mindset and even follow the same tactic that Saudi Arabia did against Argentina. Polish coach Czesław Michniewicz may instruct his players to play with a high line defense and make a trap for the opposition's forwards. Poland may not even need a point from this fixture if the Saudi Arabia vs Mexico match result goes in their favour. They would be under less pressure and perhaps pull off another surprise at this World Cup by eliminating Argentina from the group stage.
Probable team line-ups: Poland vs Argentina
There is no injury concern in the Argentine campaign, which is certainly big news. However, Lionel Scalni is still struggling to formulate his best XI. He may shake up his starting XI once again despite winning the last match. Changes in fullback and defensive midfield positions are almost certain. Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, and Enzo Fernandez may start this match.
Argentina’s probable starting XI (4-3-3)
GK: Emi Martinez; Defenders: Nahuel Molina, Nicolas Otamendi, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico; Midfielders: Leandro Paredes, Enzo Fernandez, Rodrigo De Paul; Forwards: Lionel Messi (captain), Lautaro Martinez, Angel Di Maria
The Polish campaign has no injury issues either. Head coach Czesław Michniewicz may go with the same starting XI that took part in the Saudi Arabia match. Poland may play with a traditional 4-4-2 system against Argentina.
Poland’s probable starting XI (4-4-2)
GK: Szczesny; Defenders: Cash, Glik, Kiwior, Bereszynski; Midfielders: Zielinski, Bielik, Krychowiak, Frankowski; Forwards: Milik, Lewandowski
Argentina vs Poland Qatar World Cup 2022 match schedule
The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 group stage match between Argentina and Poland will start at 1 a.m. Thursday (Bangladesh Standard Time). The match will be played at the Stadium 974 - Ras Abu Aboud.
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Argentina and Poland's World Cup 2022 performances so far
Argentina's 36-run undefeated record came to an end when they lost 2-1 to Saudi Arabia in their World Cup opener. In the second game, they returned with a winning streak and defeated Mexico 2-0. They will now take on Poland in their third match in the group stage.
Poland, on the other side, drew 0-0 with Mexico to open their campaign before defeating Saudi Arabia 2-0 in their second match. Poland will try to upset Argentina in their final game, and if they succeed, they will top the group.
Argentina vs Poland match prediction
Argentina won't be a significant favourite against Poland given their performances in the first two games. However, the Albiceleste is expected to prevail because this is their do-or-die situation.
Prediction: Argentina 2-1 Poland
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Bottom Line
The Argentina vs Poland match could be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance. Therefore, football lovers from all over the world will have extra interest in this FIFA World Cup 2022 contest. The equation for this match is slightly different for both teams. Argentina have no option but to win, while Poland will be satisfied with a draw. Fans can expect aggressive football from the Argentinian team in this encounter as a result.