Goals from Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernandez finally got Argentina’s World Cup campaign up and running against Mexico, just in time for their clash with Poland.

Lionel Scaloni’s side lost in matchday one but can now leapfrog Poland atop of Group D by beating them on Wednesday night.

Many tipped Qatar to be the place where Argentina went all the way, but their performances thus far have left a lot to be desired.

Here’s how they could set up in order to set alight a slow burning start.

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GK: Emiliano Martinez – Produced a handful – pun intended – of smart saves as Argentina beat Mexico, including catching a well-placed free-kick in a diving effort.

RB: Nahuel Molina – Was brought in off the bench last time out and could earn a spot in the starting XI as a result.

CB: Nicolas Otamendi – Yes, he’s still going. The 34-year-old has the chance to earn a century of Argentina caps if they go deep into the tournament.

CB: Lisandro Martinez – Was brought into the starting XI after sitting on the bench in matchday one and put in a brilliant performance. ‚The Butcher‘ has surely done enough to keep his place.

LB: Marcos Acuna – Was plagued by a bout of cramp in the closing stages against Mexico, but the 31-year-old should be fine to start once again in a key game.

RM: Angel Di Maria – Saving himself for the World Cup seems to have had the reverse effect on Di Maria, who is very evidently not match sharp. However, in a tournament where moments win games, he’s capable of providing one.

CM: Rodrigo De Paul – A boundless energy source in the middle of the park, don’t expect him to lose his place.

CM: Enzo Fernandez – Benfica’s midfield starlet became the youngest Argentine to score at a World Cup since Lionel Messi in 2006, and what a strike it was. When they needed a hero, Fernandez stepped up from the bench. Has to start.

LM: Alexis Mac Allister – Made his World Cup debut vs Mexico and impressed for the most part. Should continue again given his efficient display and technical prowess.

ST: Lautaro Martinez – There’s a case to be made that argues in favour of dropping Martinez for a Paulo Dybala or similar, but the Inter striker has four goals from six games for his country in 2022 and seems to have the trust of Scaloni.

ST: Lionel Messi – The showstopper strikes again. Quiet against Mexico, until he ghosted his way into possession and rifled home his first goal of the tournament. Don’t be surprised if he does similar against Poland.