The Lusail Iconic Stadium
The Lusail Iconic Stadium, the biggest Stadium in Qatar will host the first Semi-Final between Argentina and Croatia tonight. The stadium with a capacity of more than 88,000 spectators is a newly built stadium and one of the most spectacular ones. Interestingly the stadium’s highest attendance of 88966 spectators was recorded in the fixture between Argentina and Mexico on the 26th of November and with Argentina billed for an appearance today in a critical encounter, we can well imagine the stadium to be filled to capacity. There is no doubt that this Lionel Messi and Luka Modric clash is going to be one of the most watched showdowns in recent history. So let’s have a preview.
The Lusail Iconic Stadium
Messi and the Goal scoring Mantra
Argentina under Messi the captain and Scaloni the Manager have shown tremendous temperament after their demoralising loss to Saudi Arabia in their first match of the Tournament. They have been up against the wall with every match being a knockout for them. They have been consistent with their play and have scored in every match with 9 goals so far in the Competition which goes to show their striking prowess. Messi is playing like a guiding light in the midfield and has made some telling contributions. He has been ably supported by the hardworking Acuna and Julian Alvarez on the left flank, Molina and De Paul on the right and Mc Allister playing alongside him .
Luka needs to Rise
On the other hand Croatia have not been as prolific as Argentina. Luka Modric has been extremely sedate and is more in a defensive role rather than looking for scoring opportunities. This has led to the burden falling squarely on Ivan Perisic, whom the team looks up to score all the time. Kramaric playing in the role of the centre forward and Pasalic playing to his right need to step up alongwith a more aggressive Luka Modric. It’s Luka’s game to play and he needs to rise.
The Stubborn Opposition
The balance which is tilted in Argentina’s favour due to their ability to score is somewhat restored when it comes to defence. The Croatians have come across as an extremely stubborn opposition, very difficult to dislodge. They are extremely well organised at the back with a strong defensive midfield too. Their Goalkeeper Livakovic is in sublime form and made some breathtaking saves against the likes of Neymar and Richarlison in the quarter finals. Brazil had to sweat it out to score and it took a piece of brilliant football to get past the Croatian defence.
A Nervy Defence
Argentina’s back line rests heavily on the experienced Otamendi and Romero. Though the defence appears strong enough, they have wilted when the pressure is immense. This has been witnessed against Australia and Netherlands where they conceded late goals and got themselves into trouble. The Croatians would be looking to exploit this chink in Argentina’s armour and the fact that Argentina is a bit frail under pressure will give Croatia hope to surprise them with their quick counters. Argentina has to be careful, the Croatians don’t go away, they just keep coming back.
The Yellow Card Conundrum : A critical factor
Another interesting aspect of this match are the yellow cards. Argentina received 8 yellow cards in the previous match. Another card in the semi-final would lead to suspension of the player for the final if the team makes it. This might just play on the minds of the players as they would be wary of getting another booking. Even Messi is on a yellow card. The Croatians can make good use of this situation and try press forward in the match. The Argentinians might just be a bit tentative when going for tackles. This will also test Argentina’s bench strength and we may see a few new faces in the starting lineup.
A Step Closer to Glory
An interesting battle is on the cards. Luka Modric is 37 and this would surely be his last World Cup. He has had a glittering career wherein he has struggled to rise from difficult personal circumstances to the position where he is. He is a true warrior . Leo Messi is 35 and this would be his Swan Song too. He looks extremely determined. It is there in his eyes. His focus appears unflinching. Have not seen a Messi like this. Can he take another step towards glory is on everyone’s mind.
Who will it be… a Leo or a Luka . We shall find out tonight.
Read QUICK, Read BETTER @ rizkhan.in
Well written
Thank you for your appreciation