Almost exactly eight years ago, Lionel Messi stood at MetLife Stadium, visibly distraught after Argentina's gut-wrenching loss to Chile in the 2016 Copa America final. It was a moment marked not just by the defeat but by Messi’s stunning announcement: “For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all that I can.”
At 29, Messi was the unquestionable leader of Argentina’s squad, but the heartbreak of three consecutive summers weighed heavily. Argentina had lost the 2014 World Cup to Germany and faced back-to-back Copa America final defeats to Chile in 2015 and 2016. However, by August 2016, Messi had reversed his retirement decision, a choice that would eventually lead him to break his trophy drought by winning the 2021 Copa America and, most notably, the 2022 World Cup.
Messi’s Resilience and Return
Messi’s journey from despair to triumph underscores a career of unparalleled resilience and monumental achievement. Fast forward to 2024, and Messi remains a crucial part of the Argentina roster, one of only three players from the 2016 squad still contributing. His leadership and exceptional skills continue to inspire both old and new teammates alike.
Argentina’s current team is an intriguing blend of seasoned players and burgeoning talent. The likes of 26-year-old center back Cristian Romero and 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho showcase the squad’s promising future. Yet, despite their talent, the team had a challenging match against Canada, where they managed 19 shots but underperformed with a 3.02 expected goals tally.
Defensive Strategies and Key Players
Defense remains a critical area for improvement, as pointed out by Coach Lionel Scaloni. Argentina allowed Canada ten shots on their goal, exposing vulnerabilities that need addressing. Scaloni, highlighting the need to limit opponents' attacks, noted, “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.”
Romero, along with Lisandro Martinez, has solidified his position as a preferred center-back under Scaloni’s guidance. This defensive pairing is seen as vital for Argentina’s ability to compete at the highest level. In the match against Canada, Julian Alvarez also showcased his attacking prowess, opening the scoring for Argentina.
Messi’s Continued Brilliance
Lautaro Martinez added a second goal, assisted by Alexis Mac Allister, with Messi demonstrating his continued brilliance by assisting in Lautaro’s goal. Despite the years, Messi’s elite-level capabilities remain evident, proving he still has much to offer.
Scaloni, reflecting on Messi’s presence and the team's mindset, remarked, “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. 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.”
It is a present where Argentina, bolstered by a blend of youthful vigor and experienced leadership, continues to chase glory. The lessons learned from past heartbreaks, coupled with a clear focus on present challenges, define their journey forward. And at the heart of it all remains Lionel Messi, a living legend who, after nearly stepping away, chose to write another chapter in his illustrious career.