How can Argentina still advance in Group D?
KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV / AFP / Getty
It's not looking good for Argentina.
Lionel Messi and company could make a quick World Cup exit thanks to a disastrous 3-0 loss to Croatia on Thursday. After two group-stage matches, La Albiceleste sits third with only a single, disappointing point.
The outcome of Friday's match between Nigeria and Iceland will play a major role in whether Jorge Sampaoli's men can secure a spot in the round of 16 before they face the Super Eagles in their final group-stage match on June 26.
So, what has to happen to guarantee Argentina's safety? Here's how it breaks down:
If Iceland defeats Nigeria
Group D heading into final Matchday:
| Team | MP | PTS | GD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Croatia | 2 | 6 | +5 |
| 2 | Iceland | 2 | 4 | +1 (or higher) |
| 3 | Argentina | 2 | 1 | -3 |
| 4 | Nigeria | 2 | 0 | -3 (or lower) |
- Argentina must defeat Nigeria
- Croatia must defeat Iceland
- Argentina needs to erase a minimum four-goal gap in goal differential with Iceland
If Iceland and Nigeria draw
Group D heading into final Matchday:
| Team | MP | PTS | GD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Croatia | 2 | 6 | +5 |
| 2 | Iceland | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Nigeria | 2 | 1 | -2 |
| 4 | Argentina | 2 | 1 | -3 |
- Argentina must defeat Nigeria
- Croatia must avoid defeat against Iceland
If Nigeria defeats Iceland
Group D heading into final Matchday:
| Team | MP | PTS | GD | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Croatia | 2 | 6 | +5 |
| 2 | Nigeria | 2 | 3 | -1 (or higher) |
| 3 | Iceland | 2 | 1 | -1 (or lower) |
| 4 | Argentina | 2 | 1 | -3 |
- Argentina must defeat Nigeria
- Croatia must avoid defeat against Iceland
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