The marquee match of the eighth day of the World Cup didn’t disappoint, as Argentina imploded against Croatia, losing 3-0. Willy Caballero’s awful error was just the beginning, as Jorge Sampaoli’s side crumbled while they chased the game.
Following the loss, reports have come out claiming Argentina’s players want Sampaoli gone, and that he’ll be replaced by Jorge Burruchaga for their final group match against Nigeria. Whether it happens or not, the fact this is even a rumor is an indication of the disarray around the team.
The match was also a dark spot on the increasingly nightmarish international career of Lionel Messi, who touched the ball only 49 times in the defeat. Sampaoli had switched to a back three in an effort to move Messi further forward, but his captain was left isolated and uninvolved.
As for Croatia, the win clinched their spot in the last 16, likely as group winners. They didn’t have to be great, but there’s a sense building Luka Modric and co. are finally ready to fulfill their talent on the world stage.
Elsewhere, France booked their passage to the knockout rounds with a 1-0 against Peru. They flashed some of their immense attacking quality in the first half, but for the most part it was another effective, workmanlike performance.
The day began with Denmark playing Australia. Christian Eriksen gave his side the lead, before Mile Jedinak scored his second penalty in as many matches after the VAR intervened following Yussuf Poulsen’s handball.
