What do Argentina and Lionel Messi need to reach World Cup knockout stage?

Argentina beat Mexico 2-0 on Saturday, rebounding from their shock defeat against Saudi Arabia in their opening World Cup match.

That puts them in a much stronger position heading into their final group-stage match, especially after Poland beat Saudi Arabia earlier on Saturday.

But what do Lionel Messi and Co need to do in their final match against Poland to advance? The Athletic explains below.

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How can Argentina qualify for the World Cup knockout stage?

If Argentina beat Poland on Wednesday, they are guaranteed to advance to the round of 16.

What about a draw?

If Argentina can only manage a draw against Poland, Messi’s World Cup future will depend on the result of the Mexico-Saudi Arabia match.

The best result for Argentina would be a draw between Mexico and Saudi Arabia, as that would guarantee Argentina a place in the last 16.

If Mexico beat Saudi Arabia, tiebreakers would come into play, starting with goal difference. Argentina currently hold a three-goal advantage over Mexico in goal difference.

But if Saudi Arabia beat Mexico, Argentina would be eliminated.

Finally, if Argentina were to lose to Poland on Wednesday, they would also be eliminated from the World Cup.

Read more: Lionel Messi scored in his 1000th appearance as Argentina advanced to the quarterfinal, beating Australia

How does Group C look currently?

Read more: Argentina eliminated the Netherlands on penalties to advance to the semi-finals

Read more: Lionel Messi scored a goal and added an assist in Argentina’s win over Croatia to advance to the World Cup final

(Photo: Getty Images)

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