4. Iceland are no longer the underdogs

Everyone loves an underdog and Iceland’s run to the quarter-finals at the European Championships two years ago was certainly a great story. Unless you’re English.

Their fairy-tale run continued when Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side became the smallest nation to ever qualify for a World Cup, but should we really be so surprised anymore.

It’s clear that this Iceland side possess an incredible team spirit and are a well-drilled unit, while Everton playmaker Gylfi Sigurdsson offers quality from set plays.

On their World Cup debut, Iceland’s robust back line kept Lionel Messi at bay, and many tipped them to go on and beat Nigeria in the following fixture.

It all seemed too good to be true, and defeat to the Super Eagles gave Iceland a harsh reality check. Still, they’re not out of it yet.

5. Changing systems is a risky game

Both Argentina and Nigeria switched to a back three after disappointing performances in their opening games.

Following his side’s 1-1 draw with Iceland, Sampaoli threw the game plan out the window against Croatia, as La Albiceleste adopted a 3-4-3 formation in Nizhny Novgorod.

It was a recipe for disaster, as the Croatians exploited Argentina’s sluggish and disorganised back line to run out comfortable 3-0 winners.

A day later, Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr took a similar risk when he abandoned the 4-2-3-1 system he deployed against Croatia in their opening game.

However, the Super Eagles were much more balanced and disciplined with three men in their back line and subsequently recorded a clean sheet against Iceland.