Almost exactly eight years ago, Lionel Messi stood at MetLife Stadium, visibly emotional, moments after Argentina's crushing loss in the 2016 Copa America final to Chile, a defeat sealed by the cruelty of penalties. What followed was a shocking announcement that reverberated through the world of football: At 29, Messi declared his retirement from international duty. “For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all that I can,” Messi lamented, a sentiment heavy with the weight of three consecutive summer heartbreaks, which included the World Cup final loss to Germany in 2014 and back-to-back Copa America defeats to Chile in 2015 and 2016.
Despite the sheer finality of his words, the football world knew that Messi’s story with Argentina wasn't quite over. By August 2016, Messi reversed his decision, driven by a longing to fulfill his dream of lifting a major trophy with his national team. That persistence bore fruit years later when he broke his trophy drought, first with the 2021 Copa America and then the elusive 2022 World Cup, achievements that not only cemented his legacy but also rejuvenated Argentine football.
As Argentina heads into new challenges, Messi remains a central figure, one of only three players on the 2024 roster who also participated in the 2016 tournament. This continuity in the squad underscores a blend of steadfastness and evolution, exemplified by the presence of 26-year-old center back Cristian Romero and the emerging talent of 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho.
Recent Performance and Areas for Improvement
In their recent encounter against Canada, Argentina’s dominant display was represented by their 19 shots on goal. However, they managed to fall short of their 3.02 expected goals tally, indicating room for improvement in finishing. Additionally, Argentina’s defense, while generally solid, allowed Canada to take 10 shots on their goal. Coach Lionel Scaloni did not mince words about the need for defensive enhancement, emphasizing the importance of limiting the opponent’s attacking opportunities.
“We have a very particular strategy and game plan and the opponent poses difficulties. What we do is try to adjust, try to avoid damage to our team and we will try to find the spaces, given the opponent,” Scaloni articulated. “The opponent will set the tone of its attack and of course, we will be cautious about that and it's valid to do so.” This pragmatism is indicative of Scaloni’s approach, which balances Argentina's attacking prowess with necessary defensive caution.
Crucial Contributions and Tactical Dynamics
Romero and Lisandro Martinez have solidified their roles as Scaloni’s preferred center-back pairing, providing a robust foundation at the back. Their partnership will be critical as Argentina looks to fine-tune both ends of the pitch. On the offensive front, Julian Alvarez, who started alongside Messi, opened the scoring against Canada. The attacking chemistry was further highlighted when Lautaro Martinez found the net with an assist from Alexis Mac Allister. Messi showcased his undiminished creative spark by assisting on Lautaro Martinez’s goal, reiterating his ongoing importance to the team’s success.
Scaloni remains focused on the present, a sentiment he conveyed passionately: “The cups that Chile won, the cups that we won … that is in the past. We are living in the present and this team knows that very well. Each match is a different history and we have to face it as it comes. Previous titles don’t change that.” His words emphasize the team's mindset to treat every match as a new challenge irrespective of past glories.
Amid questions about Messi’s future, Scaloni's perspective is refreshingly grounded. “I think that it’s very important to have him here. Everyone’s asking about the future, the past but this is the lovely present … The present is very important. What's in the past is in the past and he is enjoying his birthday. We want him to have a good time.” The emphasis on cherishing the current moment while staying vigilant about future hurdles is a mantra that has kept Argentina in good stead.
As Argentina prepares for upcoming tournaments, the blend of experienced stalwarts like Messi and budding talents such as Garnacho offers a balanced squad capable of facing any challenge. Their recent performances and Scaloni’s strategic acumen set a promising stage for what could be another triumphant chapter in Argentina’s storied football history.