The Legacy of Maradona vs Messi: Argentina Since 1993

The eternal debate rages in Argentina: why has the national team failed to secure significant titles since Diego Maradona last led them to the pinnacle of football? Does it not seem true that his presence was more critical for the team's success than Lionel Messi's subsequent reign? Indeed, during the years under Messi's leadership, Argentina has achieved remarkable success, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2021 Copa America. But what other trophies can appease the critics, and how have Argentine teams struggled in other tournaments?

Factors Contributing to Argentina's Title Drought

Several factors have contributed to Argentina's lack of titles since 1993, when they won the Copa America. Despite having produced great players and teams after Diego Maradona, Argentina has faced numerous setbacks. The 1998 team, featuring players like Ariel Ortega, Javier Zanetti, Gabriel Batistuta, and young Hernan Crespo, was thwarted in the quarter-finals by a brilliant Dennis Bergkamp goal. In 2002, similarly, the team's hopes were dashed by England in the first round. The 2006 team, with Crespo leading the attack and anchoring players like Roberto Ayala, Carlos Tevez, Juan Roman Riquelme, and Pablo Aimar, was knocked out in the quarter-finals by Germany after a penalty shootout.

Challenges for Argentine Football

Despite maintaining legendary players, Argentina has faced significant challenges:

1. Lack of a Proper Defense and Average Goalkeepers

Most of Argentina's prominent players have been attacking-minded. Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi, although exceptional, have not been defenders. Roberto Ayala is the exception, as he was a solid full-back, but he was far from the only star on the team.

2. Bad Coaching Decisions

Coaching decisions have often been questionable. For example, Jose Pekerman's decision to remove both Riquelme and Crespo in the quarter-final against Germany in 2006 was puzzling. Similarly, Maradona's exclusion of Pablo Aimar in the 2010 World Cup squad remains a matter of debate.

3. Unfavorable Encounters with Superior Teams

Several encounters with superior teams have prevented Argentina from advancing. For instance, in the 2007 Copa America final against Brazil, and in the 2014 World Cup against Germany, Argentina faced teams that outplayed them.

Fixing the Most Important Thing: The Defence (2022)

One of the most significant changes was the improvement in defence in 2022, where Argentina secured the FIFA World Cup. The team boasted a world-class goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, and defenders like Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez, who were voted the best defender in Serie A. This improved defence was complemented by dynamic attackers like Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, and Hatem Ben Arfa. Midfield players like Javier Mascherano and Ever Banega carried out the grueling defensive work in the midfield, solidifying the team's all-round strength.

While having just attacking players is not enough to secure a title, building a well-rounded team with defensive prowess and attacking talent is crucial for victory.

Conclusion

The legacy of Maradona and Messi is undeniably intertwined with Argentina's football history. While Maradona's impact was monumental, Messi has molded Argentina into a formidable force, culminating in the 2022 World Cup triumph. The journey to sustained success continues, but the 2022 World Cup victory demonstrated that a balanced and cohesive team is the key to overcoming the challenges faced since 1993.