The World Cup has been full of surprises and unexpected results, and the semi-finals are shaping to be no different.
Croatia, a team that was not expected to advance past the group stage, has defied the odds to reach the final four, largely thanks to their solid defense and ability to excel in penalty shootouts.
In their quarter-final match against Brazil, Croatia managed to hold off the tournament favorites despite only having one shot on target to Brazil's 11.
On the other side of the pitch, Argentina has had its share of ups and downs in the tournament. After a strong start, they faltered in their final group-stage match against Croatia, which left them on the brink of elimination.
However, they managed to bounce back in the round of 16, coming from behind to defeat Nigeria and advance to the quarter-finals. They faced a tough test against the Netherlands but ultimately triumphed on penalty kicks.
Despite being the favorite to advance, Argentina will have their work cut out against Croatia.
The Croatian defense is strong, and they have shown an ability to grind out results in tight matches.
Croatia will have an advantage if the game goes to extra time, as eight of their last nine knockout matches have gone to extra time.
However, Argentina has its weapons, led by superstar Lionel Messi, who will be looking to lead his team to victory in what may be his last chance to win a World Cup.
Argentina, one of the traditional powerhouses of international soccer, has had a rocky road to the semi-finals. After a strong start to the tournament, with victories over Iceland and Croatia, they faltered in their final group stage match against Nigeria, losing 2-1 and putting themselves in a difficult position.
In the round of 16, they faced a do-or-die match against Nigeria, and once again fell behind early in the game.
However, they managed to turn things around and secure a 2-1 victory, thanks in part to a stunning long-range goal by midfielder Ever Banega.
In the quarter-finals, they faced a tough test against the Netherlands, and after a hard-fought match that ended in a 0-0 draw, they ultimately triumphed on penalty kicks.