Argentina 2026: Between Continuity and Destiny

There are moments in football when a squad announcement becomes more than a list of names. It becomes a mirror reflecting a nation's hopes, fears, ambitions, and memories. Argentina's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is one such moment.

The chills of December 2022 may have faded with time, but the aura remains. The memories of Lusail, the image of Lionel Messi lifting the World Cup, and the feeling of witnessing history still linger in the collective consciousness of Argentine supporters. Now, four years later, another journey begins.

The question is simple, yet impossible to answer with certainty:

Can Argentina become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup?

Scaloni's Greatest Strength: Continuity

Modern international football often rewards continuity. National teams rarely have enough time together to develop complex systems from scratch, which makes familiarity a priceless asset.

Lionel Scaloni understands this better than most.

The backbone of the 2022 champions remains intact. Emiliano Martínez still guards the goal. Cristian Romero continues to marshal the defence. Enzo Fernández, Alexis Mac Allister, Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes still form the midfield's heartbeat. Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez remain among the most complete forwards in world football.

Scaloni has resisted the temptation to overhaul a winning formula.

This is not a squad built on novelty. It is a squad built on trust.

Every omission, every controversial selection, appears rooted in a simple principle: the manager values chemistry over potential and familiarity over experimentation.

That philosophy brought Argentina three consecutive international trophies. It is difficult to argue against it now.

The Messi Factor: One Last Ride

Every discussion about Argentina eventually returns to Lionel Messi.

How could it not?

This will be his sixth World Cup, an achievement almost unimaginable in modern football. At nearly 39 years of age, Messi remains the spiritual, technical, and emotional center of the national team.

The challenge is obvious.

The Messi of 2026 is not the Messi of 2022.

Time remains undefeated.

Yet Messi has spent his entire career making impossible conversations seem foolish. Every prediction about his decline has eventually been disproven. Every attempt to place limits on his greatness has been met with another masterpiece.

Argentina's system remains designed around him. The runners, the midfield workers, the relentless pressers - all exist partly to maximize the influence of football's greatest artist.

The question is not whether Messi can still change a game.

The question is whether he can do it repeatedly across seven or eight matches in the demanding environment of a World Cup.

That uncertainty is simultaneously Argentina's greatest concern and their greatest source of hope.

The Defensive Dilemma

If there is one area that invites scrutiny, it is the defence.

Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martínez remain elite defenders when fully fit. The problem is that neither has enjoyed a consistently healthy campaign. Injuries have interrupted their rhythm and raised questions about durability.

Then there is Nicolás Otamendi.

The veteran embodies everything Scaloni values: leadership, experience, resilience, and an understanding of tournament football. Yet by 2026 he will be 38 years old.

This explains why the omission of Marcos Senesi has generated significant debate.

Senesi arrives with strong Premier League credentials and arguably offers a more modern defensive profile. His ability to progress possession, break opposition lines, and contribute during build-up phases has been exceptional.

Purely from a footballing perspective, his exclusion is difficult to ignore.

Yet Scaloni's decision reflects a deeper truth about tournament football.

World Cups are not won solely by statistics.

They are often won by trust.

And trust, earned over years within a dressing room, appears to have outweighed Senesi's impressive domestic form.

Whether that proves wise or costly remains one of the tournament's most fascinating subplots.

Midfield: The Engine Room

Argentina's midfield may not possess the glamour of previous generations, but it remains remarkably functional.

Leandro Paredes provides structure.

Enzo Fernández supplies progression.

Alexis Mac Allister offers intelligence between the lines.

Rodrigo De Paul remains the tireless runner who stitches everything together.

Critics point to inconsistent club seasons. Some question whether Mac Allister and Enzo have reached the heights expected of them.

Yet international football often follows different rules.

Players do not wear club burdens when they put on the national shirt.

History repeatedly shows that Argentina's midfielders transform when surrounded by familiar teammates and a clearly defined system.

More intriguingly, emerging names such as Nico Paz, Thiago Almada and Valentín Barco offer glimpses of a future beyond the current generation.

The transition may already be underway.

Attack: A Wealth of Possibilities

For decades, Argentina's identity was tied to producing great forwards.

Nothing has changed.

Julián Álvarez embodies modern football's demands. He presses relentlessly, creates space for others, and contributes goals at the highest level.

Lautaro Martínez remains among the world's most complete number nines.

Together they provide Scaloni with tactical flexibility that few nations can match.

Behind them, Thiago Almada and Nico Paz represent a new generation eager to emerge from Messi's shadow.

Juliano Simeone, meanwhile, brings an intensity perfectly suited to Scaloni's philosophy. His work rate, aggression, and tactical discipline make him an ideal tournament player.

This attack may lack the star-studded glamour of previous Argentine generations, but it possesses balance, versatility, and depth.

The Cost of Continuity

Ironically, Argentina's greatest strength may also be its greatest weakness.

Continuity can become stagnation.

The same loyalty that preserves chemistry can delay renewal.

The same veterans who provide leadership can eventually become liabilities.

Several key players are approaching the latter stages of their international careers. Questions about succession remain unresolved.

Who inherits Messi's mantle?

Who becomes the face of Argentine football after 2026?

Nico Paz appears the most obvious candidate. Thiago Almada possesses the talent. Others will emerge.

Yet replacing Messi is not a football challenge.

It is an existential one.

Every future Argentine number ten will carry the burden of impossible comparisons.

Expectations and Reality

The temptation is to judge Argentina purely through the lens of their 2022 triumph.

That would be a mistake.

This is not the same team.

Nor should it be.

The champions of Qatar have evolved into something different: older, wiser, perhaps less explosive, but still deeply competitive.

There are legitimate concerns about age, defensive depth, and dependence on Messi.

There are equally compelling reasons to believe.

Scaloni remains one of international football's most astute managers. The squad retains its core identity. The dressing room remains united. The tactical structure remains intact.

Most importantly, Argentina have earned the right to be trusted.

Four years ago, many doubted them.

They responded by conquering the world.

Today, scepticism surrounds them once again.

History suggests that may be exactly where Argentina are most dangerous.

Whether this story ends with another trophy or a graceful farewell, one thing is certain:

The final chapter of Messi's World Cup journey promises to be among football's most captivating narratives.

And Argentina, once again, will carry the dreams of a nation into the unknown.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar

A Night of Redemption: Juventus Conquer Camp Nou in a Tale of Two Titans

The stage was set, the stakes monumental. Juventus, having suffered a humbling 2-0 defeat in Turin, arrived at Camp Nou with a daunting task: score at least three goals while maintaining a two-goal margin of victory to claim supremacy in their Champions League group. It was a challenge rarely met at Barcelona’s fortress, a venue synonymous with dreams dashed and hopes extinguished. Yet, on this December night, the improbable unfolded in a clash that promised drama, unpredictability, and the lingering aura of two footballing titans—Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Contrasting Fortunes, Colliding Legacies

Both teams entered the contest under a cloud of inconsistency. Barcelona, languishing in ninth place in La Liga and reeling from a shock defeat to Cadiz, bore the scars of a tumultuous season. Juventus, meanwhile, oscillated between flashes of brilliance and moments of mediocrity, a side yet to find its rhythm under Andrea Pirlo’s stewardship. Yet, the narrative transcended form and tactics—it was about Messi versus Ronaldo, perhaps for the last time on this grand stage. The rivalry, once a defining feature of modern football, had lost some of its youthful vigor but retained an enduring allure.

The Opening Salvo: Ronaldo Strikes First

Juventus began with purpose, pressing high and denying Barcelona the space to settle. The breakthrough came in the 13th minute, a moment as contentious as it was decisive. Ronaldo, receiving a long ball from Juan Cuadrado, drove into the penalty area, only to be impeded by Ronald Araújo. Referee Tobias Stieler pointed to the spot, and though replays revealed the challenge was clumsy rather than malicious, the decision stood. Ronaldo, ever the consummate showman, dispatched the penalty with unerring precision, sending Marc-André ter Stegen the wrong way. Juventus led, and the mountain they had to climb suddenly seemed less insurmountable.

A Goal for the Ages: McKennie’s Moment of Brilliance

The Bianconeri’s relentless pressure bore fruit again just seven minutes later. A throw-in led to a fluid sequence involving Aaron Ramsey, Weston McKennie, and Cuadrado. The Colombian’s pinpoint cross found McKennie unmarked in the box. What followed was pure artistry: a flying scissor-kick volley, executed with balletic grace, left ter Stegen rooted as the ball rippled the net. Juventus were now 2-0 up, the tiebreaker firmly in their grasp.

Messi’s Resistance and Buffon’s Defiance

Barcelona, stung by the early onslaught, sought refuge in their talisman. Messi, the lone beacon in a faltering side, tested Gianluigi Buffon repeatedly with long-range efforts and darting runs. The veteran goalkeeper, however, was equal to the challenge, his saves reminiscent of his prime. As the first half drew to a close, Barcelona’s possession-heavy approach yielded little, their attacks thwarted by a Juventus defence marshalled with discipline and grit.

The Turning Point: Another Penalty, Another Ronaldo Strike

The second half began with controversy. A cross from Cuadrado, intended for Ronaldo, struck Clément Lenglet’s hand in the box. The ensuing VAR review confirmed the infraction, and Ronaldo once again stepped up to the spot. This time, he sent ter Stegen the wrong way with a clinical strike to the left, completing his brace and cementing Juventus’s dominance. The scoreline read 3-0, and Barcelona’s hopes of topping the group lay in ruins.

Desperation and Denial

Ronald Koeman’s attempts to spark a revival proved futile. Substitutions reshuffled the deck but failed to change the game’s trajectory. Antoine Griezmann grazed the crossbar, and Messi’s interplay with Frenkie de Jong briefly threatened to breach Juventus’s defence, but Buffon remained impenetrable. Even a late penalty awarded to Barcelona was overturned due to an offside in the buildup, encapsulating their night of frustration.

A Triumph of Resolve and Strategy

As the final whistle blew, Juventus erupted in celebration. Their performance, a masterclass in tactical execution and mental fortitude, secured not only victory but also a statement: they could still compete with Europe’s elite. For Ronaldo, it was a night of vindication, his goals eclipsing Messi’s valiant but ultimately futile efforts. For Messi, it was another chapter in a season of discontent, his brilliance unable to mask the deficiencies of a faltering Barcelona.

A Legacy Revisited, a Rivalry Rekindled

This encounter may well be remembered as the swan song of one of football’s greatest rivalries. Ronaldo and Messi, two players who have defined an era, once again shared the stage, their contrasting styles and indomitable will illuminating the game. In the end, it was Ronaldo who emerged triumphant, his clinical precision and unyielding drive tipping the scales in Juventus’s favour.

For Juventus, this was more than a victory—it was a testament to their resilience and a reminder of their pedigree. For Barcelona, it was a sobering reflection of their decline, a night when the ghosts of past glories haunted the hallowed grounds of Camp Nou. And for football fans, it was a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of greatness, a moment to cherish in the twilight of two extraordinary careers.

Thank You 

Faisal Caesar 

El Calsico: Real Madrid Were The better Side at Camp Nou

 The last goalless El Clásico before last night’s encounter dates back to November 23, 2002, at the very same venue: Camp Nou. Despite the absence of goals, that clash remains etched in history as one of the most ill-tempered encounters in the storied rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The animosity of that night reached its peak when Luis Figo, who had controversially crossed the divide between the eternal rivals in 2000, faced the wrath of the Camp Nou faithful. Figo’s return was marked by vitriol, but his second visit became infamous. Every corner kick he took was accompanied by a hailstorm of objects—lighters, coins, a bottle of whiskey, and even a severed pig’s head. The atmosphere was incendiary, a reflection of the deep-seated enmity between the clubs and their supporters. Amid this chaos, the match ended in a stalemate, yet its legacy endures as a fiery chapter in El Clásico lore.

Fast forward 6,235 days, and the rivalry has transformed, passing through the hands of successive generations of footballing icons. For over a decade, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo embodied the essence of El Clásico, elevating it to a global spectacle. Their departure from the fixture—Ronaldo to Juventus in 2018 and Messi to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021—might have dimmed its star power, but the intensity remains unshaken.

Last night’s encounter, postponed from October 26 due to civil unrest in Catalonia, unfolded under extraordinary circumstances. Both teams shared a hotel before travelling together to Camp Nou, a rare scene dictated by heightened security concerns. Outside the stadium, thousands of Catalan independence protesters gathered their presence a stark reminder of the political tensions that have gripped the region. The game itself was briefly interrupted in the second half when yellow balls rained onto the pitch, symbolizing the protesters’ message. Meanwhile, clashes between police and demonstrators erupted outside, resulting in injuries and fires in the streets.

Inside the stadium, however, the game proceeded without major incidents. While Barcelona’s dominance at Camp Nou in recent years set expectations, it was Real Madrid who emerged as the more cohesive and determined unit. Zinedine Zidane’s tactical approach emphasized compactness and discipline, with a diamond-shaped midfield led by Isco, flanked by the experienced Toni Kroos, Fede Valverde, and Casemiro. This strategy paid dividends, as Real Madrid controlled the tempo and created more significant opportunities.

Gareth Bale came close to breaking the deadlock, his effort finding the net before being ruled offside. Isco’s link-up play with Karim Benzema and Bale repeatedly stretched Barcelona’s defensive lines, isolating Frenkie de Jong and exploiting gaps in the host’s midfield. Despite their superior organization and creativity, Real Madrid’s inability to finish chances remained their Achilles’ heel.

At the heart of Real’s success was Casemiro, who delivered a masterclass in defensive midfield play. His ability to read the game and neutralize threats was pivotal, particularly in containing Lionel Messi. Every time Messi found space, Casemiro was there to close it down, cutting off Barcelona’s primary creative outlet. His versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between shielding the backline and supporting the attack, a dynamic presence that underscored his importance to Zidane’s system.

Casemiro’s efforts extended beyond Messi. Luis Suárez and Frenkie de Jong found themselves stifled by his relentless interventions. Even when faced with disciplinary consequences—a yellow card for a crucial tackle on Suárez that rules him out of the next match—Casemiro’s timing and composure were impeccable, preventing what could have been a game-changing moment for Barcelona.

While the match ended goalless, Real Madrid’s performance was far from lacking. Zidane’s tactical acumen, coupled with the team’s disciplined execution, showcased a side capable of dominating one of the most challenging venues in world football. For Barcelona, the result highlighted vulnerabilities in their structure and reliance on individual brilliance, a stark contrast to the cohesive unit fielded by their eternal rivals.

In the end, the latest chapter of El Clásico reaffirmed the enduring allure of this fixture. It is not merely a contest of goals but a battle of wills, tactics, and narratives that transcend the game itself. Each clash - is a reflection of its era—its players, its context, and its stakes. As the dust settles on another edition of this storied rivalry, the world’s attention shifts to the next meeting, where the stakes will undoubtedly be as high, and the drama just as compelling.

 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar  

The Ballon d’Or Debate: A Question of Merit and Prestige

The Ballon d’Or, conceived by the visionary Gabriel Hanot and awarded by *France Football*, has long been regarded as one of football’s most prestigious honours. Since its inception in 1956, the award has evolved, expanding its eligibility criteria from European players to all players in European clubs in 1995, and eventually to global recognition in 2007. While its illustrious history and rigorous voting process—now involving journalists, national team coaches, and captains—have cemented its reputation, the 2019 award sparked controversy, casting a shadow on its credibility. 

A Legacy of Excellence 

The Ballon d’Or is more than just an accolade; it is a symbol of excellence, awarded to players who define footballing greatness in a given season. Over the decades, it has celebrated legends who have delivered when it mattered most—on both club and international stages. Yet, as with any award, its history is not without contention. The 2019 Ballon d’Or, awarded to Lionel Messi, reignited debates about fairness and the criteria for selecting the best player in the world. 

The Case Against Lionel Messi 

Lionel Messi, often hailed as one of the greatest players of all time, undoubtedly possesses an unparalleled skill set. His ability to mesmerize with the ball at his feet and his knack for producing moments of magic are unmatched. However, the Ballon d’Or is awarded for a specific season’s performance, and Messi’s 2018–19 campaign fell short of the standards typically associated with this honour. 

Club Performance: A Season of Contradictions 

At the club level, Messi’s Barcelona won La Liga, but their season was marred by a catastrophic collapse in the UEFA Champions League. After a commanding 3-0 first-leg victory against Liverpool in the semifinals, Barcelona capitulated at Anfield, losing 4-0 in one of the most shocking comebacks in football history. Messi, despite his brilliance in the earlier stages, failed to inspire his team when it mattered most. 

Critics argue that Messi’s success in La Liga alone does not justify the award. The Champions League, widely regarded as the pinnacle of club football, saw him falter under pressure. Since Neymar’s departure, Messi has struggled to replicate the European dominance Barcelona once enjoyed, raising questions about his ability to lead the team in the post-Xavi and Iniesta era. 

International Performance: A Familiar Struggle 

In the national colours of Argentina, Messi’s woes continued. The 2019 Copa América was another missed opportunity. Argentina’s campaign ended in disappointment, with Messi receiving a red card in the third-place play-off against Chile. His post-match comments blaming officials for Argentina’s failure did little to endear him to neutrals, especially given the country’s controversial footballing history. 

The Overlooked Contenders 

Virgil van Dijk: The Defensive Maestro 

Virgil van Dijk’s 2018–19 season was nothing short of extraordinary. The Dutch defender was the cornerstone of Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League triumph, leading a backline that conceded just 22 goals in the Premier League. His unmatched defensive prowess saw him go an entire season without being dribbled past, a feat that underscored his dominance. 

Van Dijk’s contributions extended beyond defence; he provided crucial goals and assists, stepping up in key moments for both club and country. As the runner-up in the UEFA Nations League with the Netherlands, Van Dijk demonstrated his ability to shine on the international stage. Many argue that his all-encompassing impact deserved the Ballon d’Or, making him the most deserving defender since Fabio Cannavaro in 2006. 

Cristiano Ronaldo: The Eternal Competitor 

Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi’s perennial rival, also had a compelling case. Leading Juventus to the Serie A title and Portugal to the inaugural UEFA Nations League crown, Ronaldo showcased his enduring ability to deliver at the highest level. His goal-scoring exploits, both domestically and internationally, surpassed Messi’s, with 49 goals in 2019 compared to Messi’s 45. 

Alisson Becker: The Guardian of Glory 

Alisson Becker’s role in Liverpool’s success cannot be overstated. As the winner of the Champions League, Copa América, and multiple individual awards for goalkeeping, Alisson was the backbone of every team he represented. Yet, like many goalkeepers before him, his contributions were undervalued in the Ballon d’Or voting—a recurring theme that has seen legends like Manuel Neuer and Iker Casillas overlooked in the past. 

The Verdict 

The 2019 Ballon d’Or decision has divided the footballing world. While Messi’s brilliance is undeniable, his performances in the 2018–19 season did not align with the award’s criteria. The snub of Van Dijk, Ronaldo, and Alisson raises questions about the voting process and the weight given to individual versus team achievements. 

The Ballon d’Or’s prestige lies in its ability to honour the best performer of the year, but when the award appears to prioritize reputation over results, its credibility suffers. Football fans, especially neutrals, expect fairness and consistency. For many, the 2019 Ballon d’Or was a missed opportunity to celebrate the true standout performers of the season. 

In the end, the Ballon d’Or remains a symbol of excellence, but its legacy depends on the integrity of its decisions. As football evolves, so too must the criteria and transparency of its most coveted awards.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Pale Brazil: A Night to Forget in Riyadh

 

The Super Clásico at the King Saud University Stadium in Riyadh was expected to be a showcase of footballing brilliance, a stage for Brazil to reaffirm their superiority over arch-rivals Argentina. Instead, it became a night of frustration for the Selecão faithful. Lionel Messi, with his characteristic poise and brilliance, lifted the Super Clásico Trophy, leaving Brazil to grapple with one of their most disjointed performances under Tite’s tenure. 

For Brazil fans, the sting of this defeat lies not merely in the loss but in the manner of it. Brazil’s display against Argentina was bereft of the flair, cohesion, and creativity that have long defined their footballing identity. It was a performance that not only paled in comparison to their storied past but also underscored the growing cracks in Tite’s system—a system that seems increasingly at odds with the ethos of Brazilian football. 

A Year of Diminished Returns

Brazil’s struggles in 2019 have been evident. The signs of decline first appeared during the lackluster draw against Panama in Porto and have since become glaringly obvious. While the Copa América victory on home soil provided a veneer of success, the campaign was far from the sparkling spectacle fans had hoped for. Since lifting the trophy, Brazil have failed to win a single match, a streak unbecoming of a team with their pedigree. 

The decline is not merely in results but in style. Brazil’s performances have lacked the attacking verve and creativity that once made them the most feared team in the world. Against Argentina, these deficiencies were laid bare. 

A Midfield Without Magic

At the heart of Brazil’s struggles is a midfield devoid of inspiration. Tite’s tactical approach, rooted in European pragmatism, emphasizes defensive solidity and counterattacking opportunities. While this approach has its merits, it stifles the natural attacking instincts of Brazilian players. The midfield, once a hub of creativity, now appears static and unimaginative. 

Lucas Paquetá’s deployment as a number 10 was emblematic of this dysfunction. Tasked with orchestrating attacks, Paquetá was instead shackled by defensive responsibilities, a role ill-suited to his abilities. The result was a disjointed midfield that failed to provide service to the forwards or relieve the defensive pressure. 

Arthur and Casemiro, tasked with linking play, fared no better. Casemiro, a stalwart for both club and country, appeared fatigued—a consequence of his relentless workload this season. Tite’s decision to introduce Fabinho in the second half provided little respite, as the Liverpool midfielder was unable to inject the necessary dynamism. 

A more balanced midfield setup, with two pivots and a dedicated attacking midfielder, might offer a solution. Arthur, with his vision and composure, could excel in a more advanced role. However, Tite’s reluctance to adapt his tactics continues to hinder Brazil’s progress. 

The Wing-Back Woes

Brazil’s tradition of producing world-class wing-backs—players who seamlessly blend defensive solidity with attacking flair—seems to have faltered. Danilo and Alex Sandro, the current incumbents, have consistently underwhelmed. Their inability to contribute meaningfully in attack or provide defensive stability has left Brazil vulnerable on the flanks. 

The emergence of Renan Lodi and Emerson offers a glimmer of hope. These young talents possess the attributes needed to reinvigorate Brazil’s wide play, and Tite must place his faith in them. 

A Wasted Opportunity in Attack

Brazil’s attacking lineup, brimming with potential, was another area of concern. The decision to start Willian on the left wing, ahead of the in-form Rodrygo Goes, stifled the team’s rhythm from the outset. Willian’s inability to link up effectively with Gabriel Jesus and Roberto Firmino left Brazil’s attack toothless. 

Rodrygo, fresh off a series of scintillating performances for Real Madrid, deserved a starting role. His pace, creativity, and fearlessness could have provided the spark Brazil so desperately needed. Tite’s insistence on established names over emerging talents is a pattern that must change if Brazil are to rediscover their attacking prowess. 

Alisson: A Lone Bright Spot

Amid the gloom, Alisson Becker stood tall. The Brazilian goalkeeper made a series of heroic saves to keep the scoreline respectable, preventing what could have been an embarrassing rout. His performance was a reminder of the quality that still exists within the squad, even as the collective falters. 

A Call for Change

Brazil’s defeat to Argentina was not an isolated incident but the culmination of a broader decline. Tite’s counterattacking approach, heavily influenced by European football, has been exposed in recent matches against Argentina, Nigeria, and Senegal. It is a philosophy that prioritizes caution over creativity, and discipline over daring—a philosophy that feels alien to the soul of Brazilian football. 

To overcome this lean patch, Brazil must return to their roots. The possession-based, attacking style that once defined Joga Bonito is not merely a nostalgic ideal but a blueprint for success. It is a style that aligns with the natural instincts of Brazilian players and resonates with the fans. 

For Tite, the path forward is clear. He must adapt his tactics, embrace the new generation of talent, and reignite the spark that has long defined Brazil. Anything less risks not only further defeats but also a loss of identity—a fate far worse than any scoreline. 

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

A Ronaldo did arrive, but he was not from Brazil

I am sure the generation of 80s and 90s have not forgotten this classic Derby on Valentine's Day in 2004.

A red card for Gary Neville. Manchester United went 2-0 up with just 10-men. Paul Scholes would score. Ruud Van Nistelrooy scored twice and hit the headlines.

But a 19-year old had been at the centre of everything. He dribbled on both the flanks. Ran like a Hare. Provided assists. Won the ball back like a holding midfielder. And he scored the third goal to make it impossible for Manchester City to bounce back.

The high voltage game ended 4-2 and that man Cristiano Ronaldo sent a message, he had set foot in world football to stay with dignity, pide and in some style.

At that point of time, I could realize, Lionel Messi, about whom I came to know via Sports Star Magazine and ESPN sports shows, would certainly, create a lot of hype in the next five years and firmly believed that a Brazilian would outshine him.

But well, it did not happen. Since 2006, no Brazilians lived up to the expectations. Kaka's rise to the top was a short one. Robinho failed. Adriano was lost. And the generation of Neymar could not deliver the way it was expected.

It would be Cristiano Ronaldo, a Portuguese, who would challenge the hype of Messi and reach the top.

A Ronaldo did arrive, but it was not from Brazil.

Thank You

Faisal Caesar 

Reflections on Messi’s Remarks: A Brazil Fan Responds

   

Dear Lionel Messi,

You once said, “We could have gone further but we weren't allowed into the final. Corruption, referees, and all the rest stopped people from enjoying the football.” You even added,“Brazil champions? No doubt. Sadly, I think it’s set up for Brazil.”

With due respect, I’d like to respond to both of your statements.

On Your Team's Performance

Firstly, let’s address your frustration about not reaching the final. Honestly, you were fortunate to even reach the semi-final given the underwhelming nature of your team. You and your squad pale in comparison to the Argentina teams led by legends like Gabriel Batistuta and Juan Román Riquelme. Back then, Brazil fans viewed Argentina with a sense of tension and respect because they were a team—a cohesive, well-rounded unit driven by purpose, not just a platform for individual brilliance.  

But the Argentina side you’ve led in recent years? It lacks the same collective identity. Your performances for the national team have often been criticized as underwhelming compared to your club career. And no, this is not just about bad luck or biased refereeing—sometimes, you need to accept that your side wasn't strong enough.

The Condor Plan and the 1978 World Cup Scandal 

Now, let's talk about corruption—since you brought it up. Have you considered the role Argentina played in the real controversies of the past?  

In the second round of the 1978 World Cup, Argentina, as the host, found itself in a tricky position. Brazil had beaten Poland 3-1 and Peru 3-0, meaning Argentina needed a 4-0 or 5-1 win over Peru to qualify for the final. But beating Peru by such a margin wasn’t realistic—at least, not without outside interference. 

This is where politics came into play. Dictator Jorge Videla, desperate to exploit Argentina’s potential triumph to cover up the atrocities of his regime, struck a deal with Peruvian leader Francisco Bermúdez. Videla offered asylum for 13 Peruvian prisoners, but only if Peru "deliberately lost" to Argentina.  

During the match, even Peru’s goalkeeper—a player of Argentine origin—made no real effort to stop the goals, allowing Argentina to win 6-0 and reach the final. Years later, in 2012, former Peruvian Senator Genaro Ledesma confirmed the existence of this sordid arrangement.  

Was that victory the product of sportsmanship, or political corruption?

The 1978 Pitch and Referee Bias 

You have also complained about the poor pitch conditions during the 2019 Copa América. Do you remember how Argentina treated Brazil in the 1978 World Cup? Brazil was forced to play its matches in Mar del Plata, on a substandard pitch that significantly hampered their gameplay. Brazil struggled to adapt and ended up drawing against Spain in one of those matches.  

And then there’s the 1978 incident involving Sweden, where Zico’s last-minute header was controversially ruled out after the referee ended the match abruptly, claiming time had expired. That decision robbed Brazil of the top spot in their group, forcing them into a tougher path. Was that fair? Or was it another example of Argentina manipulating events to its advantage?

FIFA and Your Group Stage "Luck"

Now, let’s address your insinuation about Brazil’s supposed “set-up” to win the Copa América. If we examine FIFA’s treatment of Argentina from 2010 to 2018, we see a pattern that raises questions. Argentina was placed in relatively favourable groups across three consecutive World Cups, always facing Nigeria. In both 2010 and 2014, your team had an easy path out of the group stage.  

But luck can only take you so far. In 2010, an overconfident Argentina underestimated a young German side and was humiliated 4-0. And in 2014, despite an easy route to the final, you were left hoping Germany would go easy on you. The Germans, as always, didn’t oblige.  

In 2018, Argentina was placed in a group with Croatia, Nigeria, and Iceland—hardly the strongest opposition. Yet, your team struggled, finishing second in the group. The French wasted no time in showing Argentina its limitations in the knockout stage.  

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo was consistently placed in tougher groups and faced greater challenges throughout these tournaments. Brazil, too, has suffered from controversial refereeing decisions—particularly at the 2018 World Cup and on home soil in 2014.  

Selective Memories and Double Standards

If we dig deeper, we could bring up several infamous incidents involving Argentina that cast doubt on your claim of unfair treatment.  

Hand of God: Diego Maradona's blatant handball against England in 1986 remains one of football’s most infamous moments.

The Holy Water Scandal: Argentine staff allegedly gave Brazilian players sedative-laced water during a Copa América match in 1990.  

Italia 1990: Maradona got away with a blatant handball inside his own penalty area against the Soviet Union. 

 

World Cup 1998: Diego Simeone’s theatrics led to David Beckham’s red card, changing the course of England’s campaign.  

2019 vs. Liverpool: Even you, Leo, were accused of placing the ball several meters ahead of the correct spot while taking a decisive free-kick at Camp Nou.

These incidents highlight that Argentina has benefited from questionable decisions on numerous occasions. To now complain about bias or corruption seems hypocritical at best.

In Conclusion: Think Before You Speak

Football, like life, is full of highs and lows. Every team experiences moments of triumph and injustice. But to claim that corruption robbed Argentina in recent tournaments without any concrete evidence is to ignore the privileges and benefits your team has enjoyed throughout history.  

Brazil has endured its share of setbacks and questionable decisions, but we’ve rarely resorted to making excuses. Instead, we’ve focused on rebuilding and striving to be better. You, Leo, are an exceptional player—but it’s time to acknowledge that even legends don’t always win.  

So, next time you feel the urge to point fingers, remember the past. Before accusing others, reflect on the privileges and questionable incidents that have benefited Argentina. And perhaps—just perhaps—you’ll find it wiser to let your football do the talking.

With respect and a love for the beautiful game,  

A Brazil Fan

Thank You

Faisal Caesar