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‘We have a score to settle before two World Cups. Lionel Messi is a dangerous player. But if he loses the ball, he can’t do anything’ – Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal has definite plans. Argentina, who are entering the quarter-finals, are worried about Van Gaal’s tactics. The 71-year-old knows exactly which game to resort to when needed. Van Gaal has also suffered a penalty shootout loss to Messi and his team in the 2014 World Cup semi-finals. The fight is at 12.30 pm at Lusail Stadium.
Messi is the energy of Argentina. No move is complete without knowing the 35-year-old’s feet on the field. This time it is a great performance. Scored three goals. Paved the way for one. He appeared as a savior at all critical times. Against the Dutchman, Lionel Scoloni and his team’s hopes rest on those magical boots. Rodrigo De Paul’s presence and strength in midfield. De Paul is the midfielder with the most passes in this World Cup – 380. The 28-year-old, who also plays defensively, is the weapon of Argentina to tame the Netherlands, filling the field with European style. Angel Di Maria, who has not recovered his fitness, is likely to be out today.
The Dutch, who are coming to the World Cup after eight and a half years, have only one goal. The title was lost in the final three times. The style of play is to attack from all sides. There is Kod Gakpo as the central striker. The 23-year-old can prevent Argentina’s defense from sweating more. And there’s Memphis Depay. Denzel Dumfries and Daly Blind will be a headache on the wings. The Dutch have won four of their previous nine meetings. Argentina won only one.
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