Patience and possession define the approach of the three-time world champions, who arrive with a clear identity built on silky technique, total control of the tempo, and razor-sharp clarity in the final third.
Opposite them stands the Saudi side, faithful to a game plan based on tactical discipline, tight defensive blocks and lightning-fast counterattacks. The memory of that shocking 1–2 in the 2022 group stage fuels pride, mutual respect and a burning desire for revenge that sets the tone for this clash.
In a World Cup group stage there’s zero room for complacency: every single point can be the difference between going through or going home early, and this match is set to be high-voltage from the first whistle to the very last second of stoppage time.
World Cup pedigree and experience underpin the reigning champions, crowned in Qatar 2022 and still led—on the pitch and in spirit—by Lionel Messi, supported by a golden generation hitting their prime, including Julián Álvarez, Lautaro Martínez and Enzo Fernández.
The Asian side, a regular in the finals and with the memory of that 1994 round-of-16 ticket still alive, leans on the drive and quality of Salem Al-Dawsari, the hero of the last tournament.
Watching it on TV simply won’t cut it: secure your tickets and feel the drama in the stadium at a showdown that could shape the entire World Cup journey for both teams.