How does one follow an impeccable performance? This is the challenge facing Argentina as they prepare for a match that, while nestled in a crowded group stage, could be pivotal for their World Cup title defense. Lionel Messi’s remarkable debut in the tournament set an extraordinarily high standard for fans; Austria could pose a greater challenge than Algeria, and for Argentina, success may simply hinge on getting the job done.
Messi is on the cusp of becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, a milestone likely to be achieved comfortably in the days ahead. The team’s collective goal is straightforward: they aim to avoid finishing second in Group J, which would likely lead to a daunting round of 32 clash against Spain. Conquering a fierce yet flawed Austria would be the best strategy to defer such a formidable challenge; Dallas, known for its vibrant barbecue culture, serves as the ideal venue for a nation that loves an asado to bring the heat.
This location also carries a significant emotional weight. Just twenty miles from AT&T Stadium lies the iconic Cotton Bowl, where Diego Maradona played his last match for Argentina before his expulsion from the 1994 World Cup for doping. Dallas is where Maradona famously lamented, “the cup that was stolen from the No 10, the one they did not let us lift” during a press conference after learning of his fate.
The thousands of Argentina supporters gathered at the modern home of the Dallas Cowboys are hopeful that the team’s successors will hit their stride. A new chant has emerged among fans, lamenting “It was really tough starting with that defeat but then the rest of the World Cup was amazing,” If Argentina requires any additional motivation to overcome Ralf Rangnick’s squad or to help Messi achieve another moment of glory, they can draw inspiration from the song’s call for revenge.
Fortunately, further incentives may not even be necessary. Argentina finds itself in a far more favorable position than it did during the early days of the Qatar tournament, when they faced the daunting task of recovering from a shocking loss to Saudi Arabia. Historically, it’s rare for teams to maintain the same trajectory throughout a tournament, and now Argentina’s focus is on decisively disproving that notion. Enzo Fernández reflected on their challenging start.
“Having started with a win it’s very favourable, it helps our confidence.”
Coach Scaloni, who has appeared notably at ease this summer, expressed that the 2022 squad is not letting up. “I think we are on good lines,” he noted. “Three-and-a-half years have gone but they haven’t let themselves go, they always want to improve. They still have a high level of intensity, there is always room for improvement and they have understood the message really well.”
Before the match against Algeria, which became legendary due to Messi’s hat-trick, Scaloni remarked that his team had shed the mochila – the burden – that had weighed them down prior to their triumphant night in Lusail. A pressure release has allowed Argentina and Messi to perform with a calm that was absent in their grueling early matches in the previous World Cup.
What prospects does Rangnick hold then? “If you look at the algorithm it probably says we won’t win,” he stated, although he seemed to downplay Austria’s chances. “Let’s talk about weaknesses first, because there are none,” he replied when asked about Argentina. “Nothing that we were able to observe.” His team’s aggressive pressing, noted multiple times by a respectful Scaloni, must be flawless to prevent the reigning champions, who are more rhythmically and possession-oriented, from exploiting any gaps. Jordan created occasional problems for Austria in San Francisco.
“Obviously they have the greatest player of all time in their team,” Rangnick acknowledged, noting that Messi’s tendency to linger rather than press adds to his danger. “We need to show the best performance we have made under my tenure.”
They may also need to capitalize on any mistakes made by Argentina. There’s always the chance that emotion could interfere. If the significance of Dallas wasn’t enough, Monday marks the 40th anniversary of the “Maybe we will see it everywhere tomorrow and maybe we will cry a little too,” or, for those who prefer, Maradona’s mesmerizing solo goal against England. “My wish is for him to be happy,” Scaloni said, reminiscing about watching the moment unfold at his grandmother’s house.
The stage is set for Messi to add new meaning to this date. Scaloni was asked what he would wish for his captain, who turns 39 on Wednesday while his father, Jorge, is undergoing medical treatment. “My wish is for him to be happy,” he responded. Both Messi and Argentina look to continue spreading joy as they remain in exceptional form.
