Lionel Messi And Argentina Once Again Find Their Way Back From The Brink

I’m reminded of the saying in George R.R. Martin’s “Game of Thrones” series: “What is dead may never die.” And much like the Ironborn or the White Walkers, there are some things in fútbol that never die.

And thats Argentina. A team that sacrifices itself and drowns during a match, only to rise again and destroy whatever lies in its sight. 

With Lionel Messi, just like the Night King, leading the destruction.

And just like I’ve previously said, Messi and his Argentina companions are relentless in discovering new ways to win. 

Wednesday’s World Cup semifinal victory over England in Atlanta was a testament to this ritual. After the first half, it appeared the Three Lions had victory in their sights. The light was clear and guiding and became even more vivid after Anthony Gordons opening goal in the 55th minute, courtesy of a wonderful cross from the super agile Morgan Rogers. 

Argentina, though physically imposing, could not find a way to break down this English wall. Djed Spence was magnificent in his surprise start at left back. John Stones, too, in his substitute shift at center back. Jordan Pickford, ever in his confident smile, denied anything that came towards him in goal. 

As the minutes died down, so did Lionel Scalonis smile. The Argentina manager was running out of ideas and staring at a defeat. To be honest, it would have been accepted because, just like Switzerland and Egypt — and emphatically so from the Cape Verde victory — Messi and his teammates were running out of ways to get up. 

But thats the thing. This Argentina squad somehow, rather, always, finds a way. 

I will be brutally honest: Messi is someone who I admire more than any other player. 

I have covered his career extensively, wrote a book about him and have had the honor and privilege of interviewing him one-on-one. And as a lifelong Aston Villa supporter, Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez is also a player who is close to my heart. 

But as a Peruvian, born and raised in England and with English family members, this one truly hurt. So excuse my figurative tears. 

But Messi and Argentina dont care. And thats what makes them so impressive. They are World Cup champions, not because they know how to win, but rather because they kill themselves in the quest to do it. They treat the opponent, not as an obstacle, but as a virus. Something that must be eradicated. 

Its what makes them Argentina. To them, winning is not a desire, it is a hunger. 

I will also say that England also paid the ultimate price after scoring because, instead of fighting fire with fire, it actually invited Argentina to attack. It almost welcomed it. 

The substitutions were too defensive and restrictive, and Messi saw this as an opportunity. Not to score, but to utilize his other (perhaps most underrated) weapon … to create. 

His two assists were indicative of his incredible ability to open up play and find angles where no on