FOOTBALL – ARGENTINA and Egypt head into their World Cup last-16 clash tomorrow in Atlanta with little time to recover after both survived gruelling physical tests in their first knockout matches.
Reigning champions Argentina needed extra time to edge World Cup debutants Cape Verde 3-2 on Friday, while Egypt endured 120 minutes before defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.
The quick turnaround has raised concerns for both teams, but particularly for Argentina, whose previously flawless campaign showed signs of vulnerability for the first time.
After cruising through the group stage, Lionel Scaloni’s side struggled to impose themselves against Cape Verde, prompting debate over whether the performance was an isolated stumble or evidence of weaknesses that opponents can exploit.
“What worries me now is that there are only four days to rest, travel, many players were suffering from cramps, and now you play Egypt, who are also a very physically strong team. I think they have a little more quality at the front than Cape Verde,” former striker Sergio Aguero said.
Lionel Messi admitted after the Cape Verde match that he was tired and lamented Argentina’s inability to press their opponents high up the pitch.
Egypt are likely to draw encouragement from the way Cape Verde troubled the South Americans.
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