Rafomac News, Tech & Trends That MatterLionel Messi showed why he’s still arguably the world’s greatest, delivering a stunning performance to knock England out of the World Cup with a 2-1 win. England’s tactical missteps, especially their defensive approach and substitution choices, are under the microscope as calls grow for a managerial shake-up.
Why Messi Still Holds the Crown at 36
It’s easy to forget how formidable Lionel Messi remains on the biggest stage, even at 36. Despite losing some pace, his influence on Argentina’s play is undeniable. Troy Deeney highlights that Messi’s magic isn’t just raw speed or dribbling anymore—it’s his game intelligence and positioning.
Deeney recalls Messi’s assist for Argentina’s second goal—a clever cross with his weaker foot after slicing past a tired English defender. Argentina wasn’t the strongest team superficially, but having Messi at the core, who his teammates practically shield and rally around like a basketball squad, transformed them into a serious threat.
England’s Defensive Tunnel Vision and Managerial Errors
England’s downfall wasn’t about sheer talent; it was about mindset and tactics. Deeney and his co-commentators zero in on the team’s defensive shelling after taking the lead. They sat too deep, inviting relentless pressure from the reigning champions and their best player.
The critical moment came when England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, made a questionable substitution, removing the fittest and most industrious attacking player, Anthony Gordon, in an attempt to shoring up defence. Deeney calls this a panic move that shifted the momentum dangerously in Argentina’s favour.
Blaming Clubs vs. Faulty Selection
The discussion sparked controversy when pundit Adrian Durham suggested Arsenal’s management might have contributed to England’s woes by overplaying key English players like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice. Saka arrived at the tournament carrying injury concerns, and Rice battled illness.
Deeney pushes back, saying it’s unfair to single out Arsenal. Instead, he insists the root cause is poor selection and management choices by the national team coaches, a pattern going back years with injured stars like Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire. That inconsistency affects squad harmony and performance.
Who Should Replace Thomas Tuchel?
The most pressing question now is the future of England’s coaching. Deeney is vocal about his belief that an English manager should lead the national team. He names Eddie Howe as the only realistic candidate to replace Tuchel and restore stability. The FA’s haste in appointing Tuchel, the hefty salary, and handing over complete control without a clear long-term plan have sowed uncertainty within the squad.
Young players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Phil Foden reportedly feel sidelined under Tuchel’s management, which only adds to the growing calls for a fresh start with a coach who understands the English football culture and can unite the locker room.
Spain or Argentina: Who’s Got the Edge?
Looking ahead to the World Cup final, the balance seems tipped slightly towards Spain. Deeney admires Spain’s tactical discipline and their ability to maintain possession under pressure, a quality Argentina struggles with despite having Messi.
Spain’s depth in quality beyond their captain Far improved their chances, though Messi’s single brilliance keeps the odds finely poised. The mental toughness Argentina displayed—never giving up against Egypt and England—has made this tournament unforgettable.
Messi’s blend of bravery, skill, and leadership isn’t just about scoring goals but inspiring his team to defy expectations. In that way, he’s still the greatest player around.
