World Cup 2022 Group C: Messi-inspired Argentina have eyes on the prize

The 2021 Copa America winnersArgentina will fancy their chances in Group C, and perhaps of winning the whole tournament as Lionel Messi looks to bow out of the international arena with a World Cup triumph.

Lionel Scaloni’s side look to be the team to beat in South America, not tasting defeat since pre-Covid 19 – when they lost in the semi-finals of the Copa America to Brazil in 2019.

Their impressive 3-0 victory over Italy in the Uefa Cup of Champions stretched their unbeaten run to 32 games, which has since been extended to 33, putting Argentina just four matches away from the longest unbeaten streak in international football.

However, the quality of opposition Argentina face ahead of the World Cup may not be adequate preparation, with games against Estonia, Honduras, and Jamaica. Despite this, their impressive wins against Brazil, Italy, Uruguay, and Colombia over the past year suggests that La Albiceleste have no problems putting quality opposition to the sword either.

Whilst the majority of eyes will be on talisman Messi, Argentina are able to boast a wealth of talent.

HOW ARGENTINA QUALIFED FOR WORLD CUP 2022: October 8, 2020. Argentina 1 (Messi pen 13’) Ecuador 0: Three points to kick-off the campaign thanks to Lionel Messi’s first-half penalty that extended their unbeaten run under manager Lionel Scaloni to eight games. "It was important to start with a win because we know how difficult the qualifiers are and all the matches are going to be as hard as this one," Messi said. Getty

Striker Lautaro Martinez will be vital, with the Inter Milan striker netting 29 goals in all competitions last season. The 25-year-old has also managed to transfer his form to the international stage, scoring 20 goals in all