Aguero and Otamendi on verge of World Cup exit after Croatia defeat

Manchester City’s Argentine stars Sergio Aguero and Nicolas Otamendi are on verge of exiting the World Cup early after defeat by Croatia tonight.

Luka Modric, Ante Rebic and Ivan Rakitic second-half goals leaves the South American giants waiting on results to go in their favour to have the possibility of progressing past the group stages.

Argentina never looked comfortable after former City keeper Willy Caballero’s howler allowed Rebic to burn his eyes on the ball and put his laces to the leather. The game was still alive as the ball was plucked from the net, however, no reaction from La Albiceleste players ensured a defeat at the full-time whistle.

Any confidence left in the Jorge Sampaoli’s men was drained, with Lionel Messi and co walking back with their heads hung and staring at the floor.

Manchester City’s all-time goal scorer was then subbed in favour for Juventus’ number nine, Gonzalo Higuain. The substitution failed to improve their fortunes after Real Madrid and Barcelona stars, Modric and Rakitic, put the icing on the cake for the European team.

Aguero’s glum face sitting alone on the substitute bench was too much for City fans to take, as clear divisions within the squad now look obvious. His post match comments in the mixed zone didn’t do much to promote their backing behind their national manager.

Defensive teammate, Nicolas Otamendi, showed his ugly side when he was booked for kicking the ball against Rakitic, sparking a brief melee between the two players.

There is an increased possibility that we will not see Argentina’s golden attacking force of Higuain, Aguero and Messi gracing a World Cup again, ending the chance of them lifting the golden prize and Messi settling the G.O.A.T debate.

The trio will be 34 when the next world soccer event will be held, suggesting the players will force retirement to relieve themselves of the pressure of playing for the national side and add a few years on their club careers.

Argentina’s fate will be more clearer on the outcome of tomorrow’s game between Nigeria and Iceland. A big win for the Nordic country would require Argentina needing a large goal difference swing in their favour in matchweek three.

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Their final fixture against Nigeria in Saint Petersburg on Tuesday 26 June may be the final chance for blue and white strips to make an impression on this year’s tournament.

Although we would like success to continue for any player, the prospect of having the two players return for pre-season earlier than expected will be in City’s favour.