Almost exactly eight years ago, Lionel Messi, standing devastated at MetLife Stadium, made an announcement that stunned the football world. After Argentina’s loss to Chile in the 2016 Copa America final, Messi declared, “For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all that I can.” At just 29, he seemed weary from the weight of expectation and the crushing defeats on the international stage.
Messi had firmly established himself as the leader of Argentina’s national squad by that time. The loss to Chile marked the third consecutive heartache for Argentina, following a defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final and another loss to Chile in the 2015 Copa America final. However, Messi's hiatus from international football was short-lived. By August 2016, he had reversed his retirement decision, returning to don the famous blue and white shirt of Argentina.
Fast forward to recent times, Messi has broken his trophy drought, leading Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America and the much-coveted 2022 World Cup. His resilience and perseverance have seen him through ups and downs, making him a cornerstone of Argentina’s national team through various cycles of triumph and tribulation.
Looking Forward
As Argentina progresses toward future tournaments, including the 2024 Copa America, Messi remains one of only three players on the roster who also participated in the 2016 tournament. The team is now a blend of youth and experience, featuring players like 26-year-old center back Cristian Romero and the emerging 19-year-old star Alejandro Garnacho.
Argentina’s recent friendly against Canada highlighted both strengths and areas requiring improvement. Despite managing 19 shots and underperforming on their 3.02 expected goals tally, Argentina secured a victory with goals from Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez, assisted by Alexis Mac Allister and Messi respectively. Messi’s assist for Lautaro Martinez’s goal was particularly noteworthy, reiterating his continued elite-level capabilities.
Defensive Dynamics
On the defensive front, Argentina allowed Canada to take 10 shots on goal, spotlighting defensive vulnerabilities. Coach Lionel Scaloni, analyzing the match, emphasized key areas needing improvement, particularly limiting the opponent’s attack. Scaloni has placed his trust in Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, who have solidified their positions as his preferred center-back pairing.
Scaloni’s thoughtful approach to team strategy and game plans reflects his nuanced understanding of the sport. “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, but 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,” Scaloni noted.
The coach’s sentiments extend beyond tactics to a broader philosophical stance towards competition. "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,” he explained, keeping his team grounded in the realities of ever-evolving challenges.
Scaloni also acknowledged the significance of having Messi as part of the team’s present journey. “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.”
Argentina stands at a juncture where seasoned veterans and promising young talents converge, with Messi anchoring the squad. The team’s evolution continues, driven by lessons learned from past setbacks and victories. The road ahead promises fresh challenges and opportunities, with Argentina poised to make its mark once more on the international stage.