Spain neutralised Argentina's attack in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, leaving Lionel Messi isolated as La Roja claimed the trophy. Photo: IANS
For years, Lionel Messi has been Argentina’s ultimate solution.
When matches became difficult, when opponents found ways to frustrate them and when moments of inspiration were required, the responsibility would eventually fall on the shoulders of their captain.
More often than not, Messi delivered.
At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, that formula almost carried Argentina to another world title. But Spain’s victory in the final exposed the biggest concern surrounding the defending champions — their dependence on Messi to create, control and decide matches.
