Thursday, June 17, 2010

Preview: Argentina vs. South Korea

THE BIG PICTURE
Argentina won their opening game, beating Nigeria 1-0 and with Leo Messi looking like his dangerous self once more. If you’re a South Korean defender, that has to be scary. Hopefully coach Diego Maradona will stick with his “as many attackers as possible on the field” strategy to play South Korea. Because there’s serious entertainment potential there. Big news for Argentina is that veteran midfielder Seba Veron is out with a calf injury. More at Argentina World Cup Blog.

South Korea also looked good while winning their first game, 2-0 against Greece, so they’re top of Group B on goal difference right now. Big name Park Ji-Sung scored the second in that game with a direct run and finish, but South Korea played some proper team football. Will be interesting to see if that ethic is good enough to take on the talents of the albiceleste. More at South Korea World Cup Blog.

WHAT’S AT STAKE
A win for either in this game would mean a total of six points and all but guarantee qualification. Would also put them in pole position to take first place. A draw might be OK for both teams, especially if the two pointless teams draw in the other game. Last but not least: Leo Messi. He was excellent against Nigeria, but didn’t score. The whole world (outside South Korea, plus possibly Brazil and the white half of Madrid) wants to see this kid score in South Africa.

Bet on Argentina vs. South Korea

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