4. Argentina
If all this happens but we don't get the hosts, we could easily find ourselves in a group with Argentina once more. This happened back in 2002, and the Three Lions sent their old rivals home early after winning 1-0 in their group match thanks to a David Beckham penalty. However, this Argentina is a very different squad for one reason in particular, Lionel Messi. The Barcelona forward has shrugged off the fact that he could never transfer his club form to his country, and is now flying for the Albiceleste, with 36 goals in 76 appearances for them. His improved record for his country meant that he scored 10 goals in 14 games for Argentina during the World Cup Qualifiers. He has taken on a talismanic role for his country, and is on course to smash Gabriel Batistuta's all time goalscoring record of 56 international goals for the South American side. Usually chronic under performers in recent World Cups, Argentina are now looking stronger than ever and currently occupy third place in the FIFA rankings list, and for once they have a solid defence, with just 15 goals conceded in their 16 qualifying matches. The old enemy would inevitably provide a stiff test for England, and with Messi's guidance would likely blow the Three Lions out of the water should they meet at the group stage.
Nick Turner
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Began writing about football aged 16, I've previously worked for Goal and I'm currently writing for Inside Spanish Football. Specialise in anything linked, connected with or involving football!
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