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World Cup rankings: 12 to 8

By James Fudge

KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: Serigo Aguero of Argentina celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
KAZAN, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: Serigo Aguero of Argentina celebrates after scoring his team's third goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /
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Sergio Aguero started his tournament so well. The forward was in the line-up for the opening game against Iceland and managed to score his first World Cup goal after appearing in the two previous editions of the tournament held in South Africa and Brazil, respectively. A surprising stat given that he has featured in a number of World Cup games.

KAZAN, RUSSIA – JUNE 30: Serigo Aguero of Argentina looks on from the bench prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
KAZAN, RUSSIA – JUNE 30: Serigo Aguero of Argentina looks on from the bench prior to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between France and Argentina at Kazan Arena on June 30, 2018 in Kazan, Russia. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images) /

His thumping finish past the Icelandic keeper was not enough as Argentina’s troubles were evident in their opening game. A 1-1 draw and Lionel Messi’s penalty miss left the South American’s in a precarious position, giving their next game was against tougher opponents in the group.

City’s greatest goal scorer was subbed after 54 minutes after doing very little in a game which Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic outclassed La Albiceleste’s midfield.

There was much to say about the players behind Aguero as they failed to create enough space for him to make an impact that we regularly see at the Etihad Stadium and across England. He was therefore not in the starting XI against Nigeria and only came on to watch Marcos Rojo volley to see them advance.

Remained on the bench against France, where Messi and co were let down by poor defending. He came on to score a consolation with minutes left to spare.

He will be disappointed with the campaign as it could be his last chance to bring glory back to Buenos Aires.