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Argentina eyes 'double 9' with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez against Jordan
🇰🇷 South Korea /Sports

Argentina eyes 'double 9' with Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez against Jordan

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni is considering fielding both Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez in a "double 9" formation against Jordan.
  • This tactical shift is influenced by Messi being rested and Jordan's defensive setup.
  • The decision also considers the emotional aspect for Martínez, who seeks to score his first World Cup goal.

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni is reportedly contemplating a "double 9" strike force of Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez for their upcoming match against Jordan. This tactical consideration comes as Lionel Messi is expected to be rested for the final group stage game.

como Messi irá al banco, el “doble nueve” pasó a ser una alternativa real.

— La NaciónExplaining the tactical consideration of playing two strikers when Messi is benched.

The potential deployment of two strikers is partly a response to Jordan's defensive strategy, which often employs a five-man backline. Scaloni believes that having two forwards could create more opportunities and make it harder for the opponent to control the central attack.

Sería más sencillo para el adversario controlar a un solo centrodelantero, con un marcador central respaldado por el líbero: siempre sobraría un hombre.

— La NaciónAnalyzing why a double striker formation might be effective against a five-man defense.

This move also carries an emotional weight, particularly for Lautaro Martínez. He has yet to score in the current World Cup, despite starting matches against Algeria and Austria. While he has shown sacrifice and tactical discipline, goal-scoring opportunities have been scarce.

Lautaro Martínez todavía no convirtió en mundiales (salvo en la tanda de penales de Qatar 2022 contra Países Bajos).

— La NaciónHighlighting Lautaro Martínez's goal drought in the World Cup.

Julián Álvarez, who has also not scored in the tournament, came off the bench in both previous games. He had a clear chance against Austria but couldn't convert. Scaloni has indicated that the team is prepared for various scenarios as they progress through the tournament, suggesting flexibility in their approach.

el equipo debe estar preparado para afrontar toda circunstancia.

— Lionel Scaloni (as quoted by La Nación)Coach's statement on the team's readiness for different challenges.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.