Argentina vs. Qatar: All or nothing for Messi at Copa America

Argentina will refer to the best footballer in the world as they look to avoid a national drama. The Albiceleste are on the ropes in the Copa America and have a huge game against Qatar on Sunday. César Luis Menotti, with the wisdom of many years in the game, said it himself: "Not even Cruyff or Guardiola would have turned this national team around today." Only Lionel Messi can do it on the pitch, but there may even be too much to do for a team that has not yet won a game in the tournament. It's not even a game to be the champions. It's just a game to try and stay in the competition. 

Only a win will do for Argentina against a team managed by, like Messi, someone from La Masia. Felix Sanchez's Qatar, the Asian champions, who have nothing to lose and everything to gain, as they showed in their draw with Paraguay. The game will take place in Porto Alegre, which is the capital of the Brazilian state which is closest to Argentina. There will also be an eye on events in Salvador de Bahia. Argentina can't win the group and would benefit from a Colombia win against Paraguay. 

Even if Paraguay win, though, a win for Argentina will still take them through as one of the two best third-placed teams, largely thanks to Brazil's hammering of Peru on Saturday. What is also certain is that a defeat will knock them out. A draw would only see them through if Colombia beat Paraguay by more than two goals and if -- on top of that! -- Ecuador and Japan draw in Group C. Messi, more than ever, will need to be accompanied by his teammates. He can't be left alone in his quest for an international trophy.