Almost exactly eight years ago, Lionel Messi stood at MetLife Stadium, emotionally drained after yet another heart-wrenching defeat. Argentina had just lost the 2016 Copa America final to Chile on penalties. At 29, Messi was firmly established as the linchpin of Argentina’s national squad, yet the elusive international silverware continued to haunt him.
The loss marked the third successive summer that ended in final heartbreak for Argentina. The agony began with the 2014 World Cup defeat to Germany and continued with the 2015 Copa America loss, again to Chile. Cumulating in that 2016 defeat, Messi stunned the world with his announcement, "For me, the national team is over. I’ve done all that I can.”
However, by August 2016, Messi had reversed his retirement decision, reigniting hope for Argentina. The redemption arc finally met its climax as Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2021 Copa America, and perhaps most satisfyingly, the 2022 World Cup. The long wait for international glory was finally over.
New Talents and Veterans Make a Balanced Squad
As Argentina prepares for future tournaments, Messi remains one of only three players from the 2016 squad still on the roster for the 2024 competition. The squad boasts a harmonious blend of young talent and seasoned veterans. Center-back Cristian Romero, at 26, has emerged as a crucial player, while 19-year-old Alejandro Garnacho represents the new generation ready to step into the limelight.
Argentina's recent performance against Canada was a mixed bag. They managed 19 shots but underperformed on their 3.02 expected goals tally. Despite this, the defense allowed Canada to take 10 shots on goal. Head coach Lionel Scaloni acknowledged the need for improvements, particularly in limiting their opponent’s attacking opportunities. "We have a very particular strategy and game plan,” said Scaloni. “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.”
Emerging Leaders on the Field
Romero and Lisandro Martinez have solidified their roles as Scaloni’s preferred center-back pairing, forming a robust defensive wall. On the attacking front, Julian Alvarez, who started alongside Messi against Canada, opened the scoring, showcasing his knack for decisive plays. Lautaro Martinez added a second goal, with a crucial assist from Alexis Mac Allister, emphasizing the teamwork and synergy within the squad.
Messi, as always, remains pivotal. His assist for Lautaro Martinez’s goal against Canada was a testament to his enduring elite-level capabilities. Scaloni appreciates Messi's influence, stating, “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.”
Focus on the Present
For Scaloni and his men, the focus remains firmly on the present. "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," Scaloni said. "Each match is a different history and we have to face it as it comes. Previous titles don’t change that.”
As Argentina inches closer to their next major tournament, the blend of seasoned veterans like Messi and rising stars like Garnacho provides a formidable lineup. The journey of ups and downs has only strengthened the squad’s resolve. The team's overarching narrative, imbued with resilience and renewed ambition, sets the stage for what promises to be another chapter worth watching closely. The ghosts of past defeats have been exorcised, making way for a future that looks bright for La Albiceleste.