Sampaoli previews the XI that will start against Iceland

Argentina will start the game with Willy Caballero in net, behind a defence of Eduardo Salvio, Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Rojo and Nicolas Tagliafico. In midfield, Javier Mascherano will sit alongside Lucas Biglia, with Leo Messi, Angel Di Maria and Maximiliano Meza supporting Sergio Aguero up front.

Sampaoli had no qualms with revealing his full first XI for their opening World Cup game in Russia, after his side lost out to Germany back in 2014. 

A few conclusions can be drawn from the lineup: Caballero retains his spot despite the challenge of Armani; Rojo has Sampaoli's confidence; Mascherano will play in the '5' role, and Sergio Aguero is prefered to Higuain.

 

June 15, 2018

A similar eleven was seen in recent training sessions, but Sampaoli has removed any mystery, letting Iceland know exactly what they are up against on Saturday.

The 'Vikings' are Argentina's first opponents, but Leo Messi's side, who are expected to top their group, are major favourites for the clash.