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 10:25 EDT
Comments
Fans in Argentina in tears after World Cup defeat to Croatia

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

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
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