Argentina’s projected path to the World Cup semifinals looks favorable

Argentina’s opponents for the knockout rounds have been mapped out, and Lionel Messi and his teammates appear to have one of the easier routes to the last four. The 2022 world champions will play Jordan overnight Saturday to Sunday in a match that has no bearing on their group standing, since Argentina has already clinched first place and Jordan finished last. Coach Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate heavily and keep one eye on the road ahead.

According to the bracket, Argentina would face Cape Verde in the round of 32 at Miami Stadium, which is Messi’s home ground. If they advance, they would meet the winner of Australia vs. Egypt in the round of 16. In the quarterfinals, Argentina is projected to play the winner of Switzerland vs. the first-place team from Group J, though a draw would be enough for Colombia to finish top there. If Portugal wins on Thursday night, a blockbuster Messi vs. Cristiano Ronaldo clash could happen at that stage.

In the semifinal, Argentina is expected to face England. For comparison, France’s likely route is tougher, with Sweden in the round of 32, Germany very likely in the round of 16, the Netherlands in the quarterfinals, and Spain in the semifinal. The article also outlines similar projected paths for Spain and England.