The Argentine has been placed perfectly as the first choice right back by coach Sabella for the World Cup. Known for his superb tackles and passes, the 29 year old has been crucial in keeping Argentina from conceding too many goals this World Cup. The team that was slowly beginning to look like yet another one-man effort is reviving, what with full backs such as Rojo and Zabaleta really pulling themselves together and keeping the defense tight. Zabaleta is a menace to be dealt with as his slide tackles are epic. He's pretty attacking for his position and has excellent ball control skills. His tackles often turn into fouls, but the Manchester City man has been pretty well-behaved this World Cup. He displays a partnership of sorts with Gago on the field, who plays ahead of him. Zabaleta and his team as a whole has to be on their best today as they're facing relatively tough competition today in the form of Switzerland.
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