Argentina enters the World Cup as defending champions, but history is not on their side. No nation has successfully defended the title since Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Despite this, Argentina has a trump card in Lionel Messi, who remains the team's biggest match-winner. However, several key players from the 2022 triumph are no longer at the same level, and the defense enters the tournament with question marks.
The midfield has undergone significant changes, with Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes no longer competing in European football, and the retirement of Angel Di Maria has removed one of the side's most experienced and influential figures. Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister will carry much of the creative and physical burden.
Up front, Argentina remains blessed with match-winners, including Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Julian Alvarez, who form one of the most dangerous attacking trios in international football. Lautaro arrives in outstanding form, eager to make a bigger impact on the grandest stage.
Lionel Scaloni, who has guided Argentina to two Copa America titles and a World Cup, understands his team better than anyone. He has shaped the identity of the team and created an environment where the players are willing to fight for one another. Argentina's unity remains one of their greatest strengths heading into another World Cup campaign.
