Peru vs. Colombia: A decisive match for both teams
Not only Peru vs. Colombia will define their fate in this last round of the qualifiers, but also Ecuador vs. Argentina will be under the scrutiny of the South American teams, which have options to qualify for the next World Cup in Russia 2018. Coach Jorge Sampaoli has little room for error.
Jorge Sampaoli makes two changes for the Ecuador vs. Argentina match
Jorge Sampaoli would make two changes compared to the team that faced Peru, and would keep Di Maria to counterattack their rival's attacks. The 'Little Man' knows that he needs players to populate the midfield.
Argentina needs a victory to secure their spot in the World Cup
For the Argentinians, only a win would serve to ensure a place in the direct qualification or in the playoffs. A draw would require a combination of unlikely results. In addition to these variables, Jorge Sampaoli has another concern before the Ecuador vs. Argentina match: building a team to counteract the effects of the altitude without damaging the essence of the game.
Jorge Sampaoli's probable starting lineup for the Ecuador vs. Argentina match
Jorge Sampaoli would use the starting eleven that he tested in Sunday's training session in Ezeiza: Enzo Perez would enter the midfield for Ever Banega, while Eduardo Salvio would replace Papu Gomez.
Jorge Sampaoli's lineup for the Ecuador vs. Argentina match
Possibly, Sampaoli will repeat the 4-2-3-1 formation that he used in the previous game against Peru. However, the players' disposition could also change, before or during the game, to a 3-4-2-1. Both tactical formations would have Lionel Messi starting behind the lone striker, who would be Dario Benedetto.
Jorge Sampaoli's expected lineup for the Ecuador vs. Argentina match
Sergio Romero; Gabriel Mercado, Nicolas Otamendi, Javier Mascherano, Marcos Acuna; Lucas Biglia, Enzo Perez; Salvio, Messi, Angel Di Maria; Dario Benedetto.
Jorge Sampaoli's lineup in case of playing with three defenders
In that case, Acuna and Salvio would play in the middle of the field on the wings, while Biglia and Enzo Perez would form a double pivot.
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