FIFA WORLD CUP 2018: How can Messi's Argentina still make it to R16

Thousands of Messi and Argentina fans were devastated to witness an absolute disaster for Argentina against Croatia.

It was a must-win game for Argentina and Messi had to make it count for the team’s survival. The real picture was a horror show for Sampaoli and company. It was shocking to see Paulo Dybala and Di Maria missing from the starting line up.

Dybala was brought to the stage with 30 minutes remaining in the match.  Argentina had just one genuine chance in the match starring Maximiliano Meza, who shot it wide. Ivan Rakitic and Luka Modric absolutely rattled Argentina with their finesse and power to bring the scoreline at 3-0, apart from Rebic’s easy goal over a foolish mistake by goalkeeper Willy Caballero.

Argentina still stands an outside chance to survive and qualify for the Round of 16. Group D will be all about permutations and combinations for Messi and Co.

For Argentina to qualify, they need Iceland to either tie or lose their encounter with Nigeria. Croatia needs to either tie or beat Iceland and Argentina needs to win their match against Nigeria. Goal difference will be the final verdict if things work out according to these scenarios.

It will be a miracle if Argentina makes it to Round of 16.