Algeria have a Cleanliness Problem, and its very Messi

 19/104ths of the World Cup

 

 

The Defending Champions Argentina entered today's match with only one prior meeting against Algeria in their history. That was a 4-3 victory in 2007. The Champs are currently in their 13th straight World Cup having won 3 times in that span, and finishing 2nd twice. Algeria enter their 5th World Cup and first in 12 years, though their last trip in 2014 saw them progress to the Round of 16 for the first time in their history. Unfortunately, they ran into one living legend Lionel Messi calmly dancing his swan song at the World Cup. He's the first player to see action in 6 World Cups, having bested Cristiano Ronaldo only because of the match schedule. (Ronaldo will tie that record tomorrow). One thing Messi has never done at a World Cup is score a hattrick. That feat was achieved today with goals in the 17th, 60th, and 76th minute. Algeria looked like a fine side, even threatening Argentina's goal on several occasions. There is no shame for Algeria as they faced possibly the greatest football player to ever live. 

 

 

No perfect picks today, but the players all did much better then yesterday. Two players finished on 21 points for the day. Unfortunately, only one can have the performance of the day. Missing out on 1 goal as Norway defeated Iraq 4-1 compared to her prediction of 3-1, and edging into 1st place by a single point (the first lead change of the tournament), congratulations to IoannesNix. The King (or Queen?) in the North!

 

Tomorrow we see 4 more matches as Groups K and L commence their tournament. Everyone will have played one match by the end of the day. After that, we may start to see eliminations come for teams. Hopefully your picks won't be one of them.