by Austin Coats, sports editor
As the upcoming World Cup final between Germany and Argentina nears, many call Argentina somewhat dependent on Lionel Messi, four-time FIFA player of the year. In fact, this morning I read an article with the headline: “Magical Messi and Argentina or united Germany to win it all in Brazil,” insinuating that while Germany exhibits teamwork and collective strength, Argentina relies on Messi’s abilities to win matches. One hears many similar assumptions, but looking back at Argentina’s past matches in this World Cup shows that none of these hold any truth.
Two players have proved essential to Argentina’s advancement through the tournament. The first, Javier Mascherano, has played his heart out, making play after play–especially during key moments in the defensive midfield position. Mascherano played through what looked like a concussion in the semifinal against the Netherlands, only to save a quality shot from Arjen Robben near the end of the game, (apparently) tearing his rump.
The second, Angel Di Maria, missed the semifinal and will likely miss the final this afternoon. Without him, Argentina’s offense proved lacking, with only five shots on target. Messi had zero touches in the opposite box, besides scoring the penalty in the shootout, from a forward position. Without Di Maria’s amazing wide play, Argentina lost harmony and versatility, which will definitely hurt them if they indeed have to go without him in the final.
And what about that defense? Where’s the credit that they deserve? In six matches, the back four has had four clean sheets while having to stay strong with only one-goal leads in their first five matches. Despite questions of their ability before the World Cup, Argentina has done the job extremely well.
While Lionel Messi deserves many of his titles, including captain of this Argentine squad, by no means does the team rely on him as Portugal with Ronaldo, Brazil with Neymar, or Italy with Pirlo. Make no mistake, Argentina works as a whole, and that’s why they’re going to play today.
