After losing the first match of the FIFA World Cup to Saudi Arabia, Argentina were under tremendous pressure. But the Albiceleste recovered well and bounced back in the 2nd game. Argentina won the second game against Mexico, where Lionel Messi scored one and registered one assist.
The victory keeps Argentina’s hope alive for the Round of 16. However, Argentina also need to beat Poland tomorrow to go to the next round. Argentina’s manager Lionel Scaloni had a press conference today, where he talked about a lot of things.
Scaloni congratulates Brazil on qualifying for the Round of 16
As a result of Casemiro’s last-minute goal, Brazil won a thrilling match against Switzerland last night. The victory confirmed Brazil’s place in the next stage. However, Argentina’s boss also praised Brazil’s performance, and he congratulated them.
Scaloni said, “Beyond the dimension of the World Cup, always the game we are about to play is the most important. That is our philosophy. And about Brazil, I’m South American and I’m happy for it to happen. Anyone who thinks otherwise is mistaken. I am the first fan of South American football, I have great friends in Brazil and if Argentina is not there I prefer a South American to win. Without a doubt. He’s doing a great job, they won both games and I congratulate them on that.”
Scaloni doesn’t want to think about France.
In the Round of 16, Argentina will face France if they finish 2nd in the group stage. But Scaloni’s all focus is now on Poland’s game. Scaloni said, “First we have to pass and then we will see who touches us. Without belittling anyone, we first have to pass. None of them are in a position to decide who can be played.”
Scaloni on Robert Lewandowski
Lionel Scaloni didn’t forget to talk about Poland’s star, Robert Lewandowski. “He’s a great player, it’s a privilege and a pleasure to be able to see him up close like any fan. What if he has the level of Messi? You have to enjoy it, you don’t have to compare it with others. Comparisons don’t work,” Scaloni stated.
Scaloni on Poland’s playing style
Lionel Scaloni added, “It’s true that most opponents change their system of playing with us, but Poland have a good idea of the game and in their own eleven players they can change in the game. They can play with a line of four, a line of five… Although it is known that the rivals with us play differently. We hope something similar, that they adapt to our idea of game, which is quite marked. “