Xherdan Shaqiri, dubbed “the Messi of the Alps” thanks to his FIFA World Cup hat-trick, hopes to scale new heights when Switzerland face off against Argentina in today’s last-16 tie.
Shaqiri lived up to his nickname by scoring all his team’s goals in their 3-0 romp against Honduras in their final group match to set up the clash in Sao Paulo, Brazil, against Lionel Messi’s Albicelestes.
“It’s a dream tie for us, little Switzerland is [are] facing a big challenge,” the 22-year-old said. “We have achieved something big as little Switzerland, I am proud of my three goals. Anything is possible now in the last 16.”
Photo: AFP
History is against Switzerland, who have not beaten Argentina once in six attempts and are also bidding to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in 60 years.
At their most recent friendly in February 2012, the Schweizer Nati were level with Argentina until Messi hit two late goals to claim his first international hat-trick and a 3-1 victory.
Shaqiri’s Bayern Munich coach Pep Guardiola has said Argentina must be on their guard against the pint-sized winger whose preferred nickname, “XS,” is at odds with his body-builder physique.
Photo: AFP
“They must pay close attention to Xherdan Shaqiri,” he said in Buenos Aires. “He’s dangerous in the penalty area, because he’s quick and can shoot very well.”
On the other side of the pitch, Argentina will be looking for a better all-round performance to reduce their “Messi-dependence.”
The diminutive four-time FIFA World Player of the Year has finally sparked for his country, hitting four of their six goals as Argentina qualified top of Group F, but the Albicelestes needed his late winner to overcome Iran 1-0 and also shipped two goals before beating Nigeria 3-2, lowering expectations of a third world title.
They will face their toughest opponents yet in Switzerland, who put seven past group opponents Ecuador, France and Honduras.
“Now we can’t make any mistakes as any error will see us getting knocked out,” Messi warned.
In Argentina’s favor are the more than 100,000 of their fans expected to flood Sao Paulo ahead of today’s game, including many inside the Corinthians Arena.
Yet they will have to cope with the loss of Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero, who is out with a muscle injury.
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