Argentina make one change for England clash

Argentina have made one change to the side which overpowered Nigeria as they prepare to face England in Sapporo tomorrow.

Kily Gonzalez comes into coach Marcelo Bielsa’s side in place of Claudio Lopez for the crucial Group F clash as Argentina field the same XI which started the second half against Nigeria.

Gonzalez had been expected to start, but in place of Lazio midfielder Juan Pablo Sorin who suffered a calf strain in training late last night and appeared to be ruled out.

Bielsa said: ‘‘(Ariel) Ortega and Sorin have not been able to train normally for the past three days but, in principle, the possibility that they will play is good.’’

David Beckham will come face to face with the man who helped get him sent off in France ‘98, Diego Simeone, and Manchester United team-mate Juan Sebastian Veron after Bielsa named his side 24 hours before kick-off.

Argentina: Cavallero, Placente, Sorin, Pocchettino, Samuel, Zanetti, Simeone, Veron, Ortega, Gonzalez, Batistuta.

Subs: Aimar, Almeyda, Bonano, Burgos, Caniggia, Chamot, Crespo, Gallardo, Husain, Claudio Lopez, Gustavo Lopez, Ayala.