Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Argentina to drop Willy Caballero as players force switch to 4-3-3 in attempt to save World Cup campaign

The Chelsea back-up is expected to be replaced by River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani

Ed Malyon
Moscow
Monday 25 June 2018 15:25 BST
Comments
Fans in Argentina in tears after World Cup defeat to Croatia

Argentina will drop Willy Caballero after two rocky World Cup displays that culminated in the game-breaking error against Croatia.

The Chelsea back-up is expected to be replaced by River Plate goalkeeper Franco Armani, who had not even been included in the squad until the injury to Manchester United’s second goalkeeper, Sergio Romero.

Armani, 31, will be part of a veteran team set to play Nigeria knowing only a win can take them through to the knockout round and avoid the most humiliating of World Cup campaigns.

In their final training sessions, Argentina lined up with Armani in goal and a defence of Gabriel Mercado, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Rojo and Nicolas Tagliafico.

Willy Caballero made a major mistake against Croatia (Getty)

The midfield was Javier Mascherano, Enzo Perez and Ever Banega, while Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria formed a front three with Lionel Messi.

The average age of that XI is 29.9, with a beleaguered Jorge Sampaoli allowing the players a large say in the team and formation for what may prove to be his final game in charge, but which could equally be the turnaround en route to World Cup glory.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in