Argentina
Lets get the Messi shaped elephant out of the way, what ever you Lionel Messi is one of the best footballers in the world. Since 2010 his goal tally has been mind boggling and at times with his play being out of this world - we'll miss him when he's gone and he's already passed the big three oh. Due to Argentina's remarkably consistency and Messi running out of chances the pressure could be on them to perform.
They had an interesting qualifying campaign where they nearly screwed things up and were two points away from not qualifying. You might expect that stat of other South American teams but Argentina are not a team on top form. Higuain and Aguero are also in good form and Argentina wont have to much trouble up front - its everywhere else they have problems. The goal keepers lack international experience and elsewhere the squad is made up of players who not only I don't like but if I was rating them would be noting down the phrase must try harder with Di Maria being the only exception.
I'd back them to get out of the group but there could be a few sticky moments in this group.
Croatia
A team to keep an eye on, a decent keeper, a shockingly decent midfield and upfront the likes of Mandzukic and Perisic up front. The defence has a soft underbelly but by and large its good stuff. If they can put it together they have a chance to get first place in this group.
Iceland
The story of Euro 2016, qualifying for the first time, getting out of their group, making it past round two and unleashing the clap on Europe. In theory they have no chance of progressing however, we have what us gamblers call an intriguing situation. Not only did Iceland qualify top of their group but that group involved Croatia - they have one win apiece in qualifying.
Do not write this team off, they did something special last time and had a very good qualifying campaign. They have a few decent players including Gunnarsson and Sigurdsson. One to watch and against vulnerable group favourites they're a dangerous floater.
Nigeria
A strange record in recent times out of the last four African cups they've won one and not qualified for the other three. They made the second round four years ago and had a match of the tournament contender against Argentina. A number of strong decent and pacey pros. Again a dangerous team but one I can't help but have doubts about.
Summing Up
Surely Argentina to go through although possibly not as winners.
In a group where at least one of Nigeria, Croatia or Iceland will qualify the footballing world must be rooting for Iceland.
Tips: This looks like a scrappy group, a risky lay of Argentina to win the group could be in order and overs in bookings could be the value.
One to watch: Messi, this could be his last chance for greatness on this stage and what ever happens I'm expecting his international retirement the moment Argentina are finished - in lose or draw.
Dark horse to watch: Mateo Kovacic - yes he plays for Real Madrid but in my book he's underrated and has the potential to do something.
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