Match Review: Argentina v. Iceland

Argentina v Iceland
Score:1-1
Goals: Aguero 19', Finnbogason 23'
Possession: 73-27
Shots: 26-9
Man of the match: Hannes Halldórsson (Penalty Save, 6 saves)

In one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history, football giant Argentina split points with Iceland to open up group D. The match started of with Argentina pressuring Iceland. From Messi taking long range efforts too dangerous free kicks that seemed to terrify Iceland defenders. Then Argentina took the lead after 17 minutes of constant pressure. A shot/pass from Marcos Rojo was fizzed in towards the feet of Man City striker Kun Aguero who turned to his right and banged it into the roof of the net. This seemed like it would just end up being a comfortable result for Argentina but Iceland fought back and equalized just 4 minutes later. Everton attacking mid Gylfi Siggurdson crossed the ball in and keeper Willy Caballero failed to clear it as he palmed it right to Alfred Finnbogason who slotted it home. This sent the Iceland fans into absolute lunacy. This gave Iceland a new born confidence that they used to defend for the rest of the half while still managing to break on the counter attack. Going into the half Argentina looked very frustrated, and that showed in the second half. They were forcing passes and shots that really had no chance of being successful. Though one of those passes did pay off in the 62nd minute when Leo Messi picked it up about 25 yards out and hit a sweet ball in towards Marcos Rojo, who was clattered into from behind and referee Szymon Marciniak instantly gave a penalty. It was a pretty blatant error by the Iceland defense which let arguably the greatest player of all time a chance to give his side the lead. Messi stepped up and banged it towards the left hand corner. Unfortunately for Leo that's where keeper Hannes Halldórsson dived and he saved it brilliantly and palmed it to the side. This seemed to demoralize Argentina and Messi who went back to the hopeful passing and shooting. Although Leo created a couple more chances through individual brilliance, nothing clear cut was created and Argentina was forced to split points with Iceland. For Argentina this is a nightmare start though is definitely recoverable with Croatia and Nigeria still left to play. For Iceland it is one of the best results in their history and gives them control of their destiny going into two "easier" matches against Nigeria and Croatia.