Argentina's national soccer team is looking to secure a much needed second win in a World Cup qualifier against Colombia who are coming off a disappointing draw with neighbouring Venezuela.
Eager to prove themselves after a slow start in the South American tournament, Argentina was greeted by screaming fans hopeful to catch a glimpse of Barcelona forward Lionel Messi as they made their way to the game, a day before the match.
Talent-laden Argentina has sputtered lately, suffering an embarrassing early exit as hosts of this year's Copa America and dropping a qualifier to Venezuela last month and recently coming up with a draw against Bolivia after an opening win over Chile.
Argentina Coach Alejandro Sabella did not reveal the starting roster for Tuesday, but said the team will have to be on point to squeak out a win and get the coveted three points.
"With both teams under a lot of pressure and with needs, I think it is going to be a game strongly fought at mid-field with a lot of nerves and clawing. Whoever makes a mistake will pay," Sabella said.
Forwards, Messi and Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain are expected to keep the pressure on Colombia's defence.
Colombia coach Leonel Alvarez said his side is not taking Argentina lightly as he looks to move up the ranks and get a win of their own.
"Argentina deserves a lot of respect from us, but we want to disrespect them on the field. We are going to do this with a good game with teamwork, ambition and by maintaining an intensity to get the result that gives us three points as both teams urgently need to tack them on," Alvarez said.
Colombia was triumphant over Bolivia last month before tying Venezuela last Friday (November 11).
Argentina, World Cup winners in 1978 and 1986, has not won an international since winning the Copa America in 1993.
Reuters