Argentina’s Evolving Football Dynamics
Argentina’s national football team has developed the ability to compete effectively even in the absence of their star player, Lionel Messi, according to head coach Lionel Scaloni. This adjustment comes as they prepare for an upcoming World Cup qualifier against Colombia.
Messi’s Impact and Return
Messi, who has been a pivotal figure for the team—scoring an impressive 112 goals in 192 appearances—missed key matches earlier this year due to injury but has since rejoined the squad, contributing to a recent victory over Chile.
Scaloni noted a significant change in the team’s dynamics, expressing confidence that they can perform strongly whether Messi is on the field or not. This evolution has alleviated the need for tactical changes that were once mandatory when Messi was unavailable.
Looking Ahead: World Cup Qualifiers
Argentina, who secured their place in the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America during the last international break, now look to maintain their momentum. In contrast, Colombia, currently sitting in the crucial sixth position for automatic qualification, is eager to distance themselves from Venezuelan rivals. They previously triumphed over Argentina in their last World Cup qualifier encounter.
Scaloni acknowledged the threat posed by Colombia, recognizing their quality and cohesive playing style. As they prepare to face Colombia in Buenos Aires, he emphasized the importance of showcasing their talent to the home crowd, stating that the upcoming match is anticipated to be an exciting encounter for both teams and their supporters.
