When it comes to the World Cup, no other country is quite like Argentina. With a rich soccer history dating back to the early 1900s, the Argentines have always been a powerhouse on the international stage. This year, they’re looking to make another strong showing at the World Cup, and they’ll need all the help they can get. On the other hand, Croatia is making its World Cup debut this year and isn’t expected to be a major player. Still, with both teams playing some of the best soccer in the world, it promises to be an interesting tournament. So who will come out on top? And how can you keep up with all the action? Read on for our Argentina national football team vs Croatia national football team stats breakdown!
History of the Argentina National Football Team
The Argentina National Football Team has a long and storied history from 1896. Over the years, the team has competed in several tournaments, including the Copa America and World Cup. In 1986, Argentina won its first World Cup title. The country has also boasted some of the greatest football players in history, including Diego Maradona, Pelé, and Lionel Messi. As of 2018, Argentina is ranked 3rd in the world by FIFA with 68 wins, 16 losses, and 10 draws. In their most recent international tournament, the Copa America Centenario, Argentina finished second place behind Chile.
Croatia National Football Team
The Croatian National Football Team represents Croatia in association football and is controlled by the Croatian Football Federation. The team has reached three major tournaments, the World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and the FIFA Confederations Cup. Croatia played its first international match on 18 November 1909 against Hungary, losing 6–1. Croatia debuted at the 1938 World Cup, where they lost to Austria in the first round. In their second appearance at the tournament, Croatia reached the semi-finals before losing to Italy. At UEFA Euro 1996, Croatia reached their first major tournament final, losing to France in a penalty shoot-out.
Croatia was successful at the 2002 World Cup qualifying stage, topping their group and beating England 2–1 in a play-off to qualify for their second World Cup Finals. In the 2006 World Cup Finals, they were eliminated in the group stages after losing 3–2 to Portugal and 1–0 to Argentina. At Euro 2012, Croatia reached their second consecutive final after defeating Spain 3–2 in a penalty shoot-out. They were again unsuccessful as they lost 1–0 to Germany in the final.[5]
Croatia has been drawn into Group D of this year’s World Cup alongside Brazil, Serbia, and Costa Rica.[6]
Players to Watch for Argentina in World Cup 2018
There are a few players to watch out for when Argentina take on Croatia in their Group D World Cup clash on Thursday. The Albiceleste are led by talisman Lionel Messi, who has been in great form this season. Still, they will need all the help they can get to upset the European powerhouse. Meanwhile, Croatia will look to Sofia Garcia and Mario Mandzukic to provide the goals. Both have been in excellent form for their clubs this season and should threaten Argentina’s defense.
Argentina National Football Team Players
The Argentina National Football Team is one of the most successful national teams in world football. The squad has won 15 international tournaments, including the Copa America and the FIFA World Cup.
Notable players on the Argentina National Football Team include Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero, and Javier Mascherano. These players have helped lead their country to many championships and successes.
Croatia National Football Team Squad
Croatia National Football Team Squad:
Goalkeepers: Danijel Subasic (Monaco), Lovre Kalinic (Nantes)
Defenders: Dejan Lovren, Vedran Corluka, Domagoj Vida, Ivan Strinic (Liverpool), Sime Vrsaljko (Atletico Madrid), Josip Pivaric (Genk)
Midfielders: Luka Modric, Mario Mandzukic, Ivan Rakitic, Mateo Kovacic (Real Madrid), Duje Cop (Ludogorets Razgrad)
Forwards: Ante Rebic, Ivan Perisic (Inter Milan), Nikola Kalinic (AC Milan).
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