Don't cry yet for Argentina
Argentina has not failed to qualify for a FIFA World Cup in 47 years, but Jorge Sampaoli’s side is serious danger of missing Russia 2018 if it fails to beat Peru on Friday (AEDT).
Fifth placed Argentina heads into the next round of qualifiers level on points with Peru, but with Chile one point off the pace, tomorrow's clash could seal the fate of Jorge Sampaoli's side.
The two-time FIFA World Cup winner has endured a disastrous qualification campaign, which has seen two managers sacked in as many years.
Current boss Jorge Sampaoli was hailed as Argentina's saviour when he took over in May after guiding Chile to Copa America glory in 2015, but has since struggled to get the best out of his side's star-studded attack.
Despite boasting the likes of Lionel Messi, Sergio Aguero and Paulo Dybala, Argentina has managed an lowly average of one goal per game in 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification – the second worst haul in CONMEBOL.
Regardless of its lack of goals and stuttering form, A FIFA World Cup without Argentina wouldn’t be the same, but time is running out for Jorge Sampaoli to figure out his best starting XI.
Sampaoli clearly isn't afraid to rattle the cage to solve Argentina's attacking woes after recalling Mauro Icardi from international exile at the expense of Gonzalo Higuain.
A win tomorrow will put the two-time FIFA World Cup winner in pole position heading into its last qualifier against Ecuador on 11 October, but a win over a Peru side coming off five consecutive wins won't be easy.
Despite Argentina's dire situation, qualification is still in its hands - winning its final two games will guarantee a spot at next year's World Cup and there's more than enough talent in this squad to turn things around at the big dance. If La Albiceleste can get there.
