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
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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.
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.
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