Embattled Argentina boss Jorge Sampaoli requires a moment of clarity and Nigeria must continue their winning run when Group D reaches a consequential crescendo at World Cup 2018.
Here are the key tactical battles ahead of this decisive contest at Saint Petersburg Stadium:
SAMPAOLI’S LATEST CHANGE OF SHAPE
Argentina head coach Jorge Sampaoli will feel a sense of relief that he’s been allowed this final shot at redemption.
The 58-year-old’s troubled opening year at the helm has taken a dark turn for the worse in Russia. An ill-suited 4-2-3-1 formation led to a dire 1-1 draw versus Iceland, while a misguided switch to a 3-4-2-1 contributed to the limp 3-0 loss against Croatia.
Leaks to the Argentine media now state that a 4-4-2 will be unleashed against the Super Eagles, with struggling Barcelona icon Lionel Messi partnered with Juventus centre forward Gonzalo Higuain.
This is the shape Messi used to title-winning effect at Barcelona in 2017/18. Sampaoli will pray it has the same impact.
WILL NIGERIA ROHR FROM THE OFF?
A fourth slot in the round of 16 is within Nigeria’s grasp. The challenge for boss Gernot Rohr is to make sure it doesn’t slip away.
The 4-2-3-1 in Russia has brought a dull 2-0 defeat to Croatia and enlivening 2-0 victory against Iceland.
The German will earn his money by deciding whether to continue in the same vein, or face down Argentina’s star-studded – but misfiring – attack with a 3-5-2. A memorable, Alex Iwobi-inspired 4-2 friendly win was earned with this shape against La Albiceleste at the end of 2017.
Just a draw will do for Nigeria, but defence isn’t a strength. But they last kept a clean sheet in March’s 1-0 friendly win versus Poland.
SUPER EAGLES SHOULD LET IWOBI FLY
Consistency is the missing ingredient at Arsenal and Nigeria for Alex Iwobi.
The nephew of former Super Eagles magician Jay-Jay Okocha started the opening loss to Croatia on the right wing, being hauled off after 62 forgettable minutes that contained three off-target attempts and one key pass. Rohr remembered this flop and restricted him to an insignificant 90th-minute cameo role against Iceland.
But if the tactician switches his mind back to the winter, sights of Iwobi getting a key double up top in a 3-5-2 against Argentina will flood his mind.
Being the centre of attention appears to bring out Iwobi’s best.
