Argentina out to demolish Iceland in World Cup opener

by Phumzile Ngcatshe

Saturday Jun 16, 2018. 07:00

Argentina are out to claim a victory as they meet Iceland in a 2018 FIFA World Cup, Group D match on Saturday afternoo with kick-off set for 15h00 (CAT).

The Albiceleste reached the final four years ago in Brazil and will target a better record this time around as they make their 17th appearance at the global tournament.

Having won the tournament twice, Argentina failed to live up to their expectations in Brazil when they lost 1-0 in the final to eventual champions Germany, but this is another opportunity for them to claim the trophy.

Having players in top quality such as Barcelona’s Lionel Messi and Sergio Aguero, the South Americans are favourites once again in Russia, but they will have to show consistency and hunger to dethrone the Germans.

Ahead of the tournament, they defeated Haiti 4-0, but lost 6-1 to 2010 champions Spain before beating Italy 2-0.

Looking at the side nicknamed Our Boys, the Icelanders come to the tournament labelled as minnows, but will hope to start with a win.

Making their debut appearance means they have nothing to lose and a win will boost their morale.

Looking at their previous matches building up to the tournament they drew 2-2 against the Black Stars of Ghana, lost 3-2 to Norway and registered a 3-1 defeat to Peru.

This will be the first meeting between the two sides.

The encounter will be staged at on Saturday, June 16 at Otkrytiye Arena in Miscow at 15:00 (CAT).