Argentina fans believe the national team can continue to compete at the highest level even after Lionel Messi plays his final international match.
The 39-year-old superstar is set to make his farewell appearance for Argentina against Benin at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires tomorrow.
Messi leaves behind an extraordinary legacy, including the 2022 World Cup title, two other World Cup final appearances in 2014 and 2026, two Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, an Olympic gold medal in 2008, and 125 goals as Argentina’s all-time leading scorer.
His retirement has raised questions over whether Argentina can remain among the world’s top teams or face another long wait for major silverware, similar to the 35-year trophy drought after Diego Maradona’s departure.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni says Messi leaves behind something that cannot be matched.
Scaloni says Argentina will miss having Messi on the field but remains confident the team will continue performing at a high level.
Argentina have already shown signs of life after Messi, recording big wins over Bolivia and Burkina Faso, scoring four and seven goals respectively.
Supporters believe the team could now move away from relying on one player and develop into a more united side.
Scaloni says as long as the players continue giving everything for the Argentina shirt, the team will remain a contender.
The 2028 Copa América will provide the next major test of Argentina’s future without Messi.
Source: Stuff.co.nz
