By TIM FONTENAULT
As the World Cup enters its tenth day of action, several teams are trying to assert themselves as contenders to escape their groups.
Argentina have a simple task on Saturday. A win against Iran puts them through. That is where the simplicity ends. Iran held African champion Nigeria to a scoreless draw in their opening match and can keep their hopes alive with just a draw in what is considered the biggest game in Iranian history.
In Group G, Germany can do themselves and the United States a favor by defeating Ghana. After rolling over Portugal in their opening match, the Germans are considered one of the primary contenders to win the World Cup. They cannot clinch a spot in the knockout rounds on Saturday, but a win coupled with a U.S. win or draw against Portugal on Sunday sees them through. The U.S. can live with a Germany draw, as that and a win against Portugal puts them through, thanks to a 2-1 win over Ghana in the opener.
Bosnia and Herzegovina put up a fight against Argentina in their first ever World Cup game. Their only downfall was the fact that they were playing against Lionel Messi. The lone team without a point in Group F, Bosnia could really benefit from three points. Nigeria will also be gunning for the three points. They end the Group Stage against Argentina next week.
If you will be watching today’s matches, please feel free to share your thoughts, opinions and some play-by-play in the comments section below.
Enjoy the action (TV listings after the jump):
TODAY’S WORLD CUP SOCCER ON TV
12 p.m. – Argentina vs. Iran – ESPN
3 p.m. – Germany vs. Ghana – ESPN
6 p.m. – Nigeria vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina – ESPN