The FIFA World Cup's Group C and D are on display today, with Argentina's Lionel Messi grabbing the headlines.
Despite multiple permeations, seven teams remain hopeful of advancing to the knockout phase, with France already qualifying.
Lionel Scaloni's Argentina faces off against top-spot Poland, knowing their World Cup faith is very much hanging in the balance.
Messi has hit the net in both of his appearances in Qatar and has been instrumental in his side's goals.
As expected, if Argentina is to progress, it will likely come from the little magician's boot.
They face a Polish side who are led by the formidable Robert Lewandowski. Having hit the net in his previous game, the legendary striker has finally achieved that elusive goal at the pinnacle of international football.
A draw will see Poland progress while leaving Argentina anxiously awaiting the conclusion of the meeting between Saudi Arabia and Mexico.
Kick-off in this mouth-watering encounter is at 7 pm.
United more than ever. Argentina. 🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/MOBp0Pq4Ek
— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) November 30, 2022
Elsewhere in Group C, the meeting of Saudi Arabia and Mexico also kicks off at 7 pm.
Saudi Arabia coach Herve Renard has challenged his players to secure a place in the history books by sealing a spot in the knockout phase.
His side has exceeded expectations thus far and has been largely impressive in both outings, with the opening-day defeat of Argentina the greatest of shocks.
Their opponents have been underwhelming, to say the least, and are lacking in attacking phases.
The absence of Raúl Jiménez has affected the Mexicans dramatically, and they're yet to find the net.
It's very straightforward in this one: A win for Saudi Arabia will see them through to the knockout phases for the first time since USA '94.
For Mexico, their faith lies in the hands of others, but they are still in the fight and will believe until the very end.
🇸🇦v🇲🇽 // Michael Oliver, Simon Bennett & Stuart Burt have been appointed to their second #FIFAWorldCup fixture, taking charge of Saudi Arabia v Mexico on Wednesday, kick-off 7pm UK time.
All the best, team! 👊 pic.twitter.com/UkCj3NnCul
— PGMOL (@FA_PGMOL) November 29, 2022
Turning attention to Group D and three teams are fighting for the final qualifying spot.
Australia, Denmark and Tunisia are all still in contention to join reigning champions France in the knockout phases.
Mitchell Duke sent the Socceroos wild in sealing victory over Tunisia in their previous fixture - only their third-ever win at the competition.
Victory against a wounded Denmark side would put them into the last 16 for the first time in 16 years, with a draw potentially sufficient.
Despite this, the Danes start the game as favourites, and many will be tipping them to get the job done. All eyes turn to starman Christian Eriksen and his magic footballing ability.
The Tunisians have the daunting task of pipping the French to avoid elimination. Kylian Mbappé's side has eased into the knockout stages with a game to spare, and the African side will need more than a prayer.
Kick-off in both of these ties is at the earlier time of 3 pm.
EXPLAINED: This is what the Socceroos must do to progress to the Round of 16 at the #FIFAWorldCup.
Four years ago Australia v Denmark ended in a 1-1 draw.
These are the stakes in Qatar.#OptusSport pic.twitter.com/4QTnlppdIJ
— Optus Sport (@OptusSport) November 30, 2022
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