· 2 min readIn this Argentina vs Algeria match, I analyse the key tactical moments, individual performances and turning points of the game.
There was curiosity to see this Argentina side. Defending champions, yes, but showing signs of wear, and facing an Algeria team that, without making much noise, usually causes problems. And the game actually started with a different energy than expected.
Right from the start, two goals were disallowed within a few minutes. First Messi, appearing on the right side of the box and finishing with class, but from an offside position. Then Chaïbi at the other end, also ruled out. A chaotic opening, almost misleading compared to what was to come.
Because after that, the game calmed down too much. Argentina took control of possession, dictated the tempo, but without much urgency. Algeria, meanwhile, closed down spaces well and tried to break forward when possible, but almost always without success.
The first valid goal came in the 17th minute, and it said a lot about the game. Messi received the ball centrally, under little pressure, lifted his head and curled a shot towards goal. The strike wasn’t hit with huge power, but Luca Zidane reacted late and poorly. 1-0.
From that point on, Argentina did what they enjoy most: controlling the game. The ball moved from side to side, with little acceleration and little depth. There was no need for more because Algeria also struggled to connect their attacking play consistently.
Even so, there were one or two moments. Hadj Moussa, just before half-time, beat two players with ease and played a low ball into the area, but nobody could take advantage. It was perhaps Algeria’s only real flash of creativity.
The second half brought more of the same. Algeria even had more possession in some spells, but it was completely ineffective. Lots of sideways passing, very little real intention to hurt Argentina.
The game ended up being decided by a moment that perfectly summed up Zidane’s night. In the 60th minute, Mac Allister struck from distance, the goalkeeper made the save but failed to hold on. The ball spilled loose inside the area and Messi tapped in for 2-0. A gifted goal, basically.
With a two-goal lead, Argentina became even more comfortable. No rush, no risk, always in control. And when there is space, there is talent.
In the 76th minute, Nico González received the ball on the left, looked inside and found Messi at the edge of the box. Once again, with far too much space. Messi controlled, adjusted his body and curled a trademark shot. The ball flew cleanly into the net.
And the most curious thing is exactly that: it was a hat-trick in a game that was not particularly exciting. Argentina did what was necessary, never needed to force the issue, and Algeria never truly looked capable of threatening them.
Post-match
A comfortable result for Argentina, largely thanks to Messi and also Zidane’s mistakes.
Algeria never really looked close to causing problems. Even so, the feeling remains that Argentina played at the minimum level required and will need to raise their level in the upcoming matches.
