Messi's adapted playmaking leads Argentina to Worl...

By Ishaan Kapoor — 16 July 2026 — 3 min read

Messi’s evolving role in Argentina’s World Cup campaign

At 39, Lionel Messi continues to be a central figure for Argentina in the World Cup 2026, demonstrating an evolved playing style. He no longer relies primarily on pace to dominate matches but instead orchestrates play, using his intelligence to control the game’s rhythm. This adaptation was evident in Argentina’s recent semi-final match against England.

Messi’s ability to adapt has been a key factor in his sustained performance. While many footballers experience a decline in their physical capabilities with age, Messi has proactively adjusted his game. This strategic shift allows him to remain highly influential on the field, even as his physical attributes change.

The match against England highlighted this transformation. England’s initial strategy involved tightly marking Messi in central areas, with players like Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, and Declan Rice limiting his space. This approach initially appeared successful, as Messi had limited meaningful attempts on goal by half-time.

Anthony Gordon gave England the lead after the restart, further solidifying their belief that their plan was working. However, Messi responded by drifting wider towards the right touchline, creating new challenges for the English defence. This movement opened up spaces for his teammates and increased Argentina’s attacking opportunities.

As the game progressed, Messi became increasingly involved in Argentina’s attacks, touching the ball 94 times by full-time. He created four chances, including two clear-cut opportunities. His influence was crucial in setting up the equaliser, delivering a perfectly weighted pass to Enzo Fernandez, who then scored.

Lionel Messi, England vs Argentina, FIFA World Cup 2026 Credit: indiatoday.in

Strategic playmaking and World Cup impact

Messi’s performance against England was a masterclass in strategic playmaking. He did not score in the match, and his expected goals figure was low, but his impact was profound. His dribbling, for instance, was less about beating defenders directly and more about manipulating their positions to create angles and passing lanes for his teammates.

This patient and calculated approach ultimately led to Argentina’s second goal in stoppage time. Messi kept the ball alive before delivering a cross towards the far post, which Lautaro Martinez converted. This decisive moment underscored Messi’s role as the team’s orchestrator, identifying opportunities that others might miss.

His current playing style reflects a significant evolution from his earlier career, where his game was defined by explosive acceleration and prolific goal-scoring. Now, he selectively accelerates the tempo and manipulates opponents, allowing teammates like Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Julian Alvarez to shoulder much of the running.

Messi’s continued success at 39 is notable, as many players’ careers decline after turning 30. He is one of only two players, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, to appear in six World Cup tournaments. His eight goals in the current World Cup surpass his seven from 2022, highlighting his enduring impact.

Messi’s international career includes 125 goals in 204 international matches. He has also scored 16 of his 21 World Cup goals after his 30th birthday. His ability to maintain a high level of performance has solidified his status as a legendary figure in football.

Messi was overtaken by emotions at full-time. (Photo Credit: indiatoday.in

Looking ahead to the final

Argentina’s victory in the semi-final against England has set up a final match against Spain. This encounter will feature Spain’s emerging talents, such as Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Dani Olmo, against Messi, who has been a defining figure for Barcelona for nearly two decades.

The semi-final stage of the World Cup 2026 saw France face Spain on July 14 in Arlington, and England face Argentina on July 15 in Atlanta. The final match is scheduled for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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