Di Maria an ageless wonder for Messi-less Argentina
Angel Di Maria takes charge in the absence of Lionel Messi as the Albiceleste kick off 2024 impressively.
The Argentine national team started off 2024 with a resounding friendly victory in Philadelphia, with the experienced winger playing a crucial role in their attacking success.
In the absence of Lionel Messi, Argentina showcased their prowess in Philadelphia against El Salvador, securing a comfortable 3-0 victory. The absence of their superstar, who was sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Inter Miami in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, gave coach Lionel Scaloni an opportunity to assess the team's performance without their talisman.
Right from the start, the reigning world champions asserted dominance, maintaining relentless pressure throughout the entire 90 minutes. Argentina outperformed El Salvador in nearly every aspect of the game, controlling possession in midfield and displaying skillful attacking moves in the final third.
The scoring opened early in the match when Tottenham's Cristian Romero scored a powerful header from an Angel Di Maria corner, giving Argentina a 1-0 lead. Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez then doubled their advantage before halftime following a chaotic scramble in the box. In the early stages of the second half, Giovani Lo Celso extended Argentina's lead to 3-0 with an assist from Lautaro Martinez, allowing them to comfortably control the remainder of the game.
Argentina demonstrated their status as reigning world champions on Friday evening, setting the stage for a promising performance at the upcoming 2024 Copa America.
GOAL assessed the performance of Argentina's players at Lincoln Financial Field
Goalkeeper & Defense
Emiliano Martinez (6/10):
Secured a clean sheet, though faced minimal challenges. Demonstrated solid performance when called upon.
Nico Gonzalez (7/10):
Deployed in an unfamiliar role at fullback, the Fiorentina winger excelled with dynamic involvement in attacking overlaps.
Cristian Romero (8/10):
Opened the scoring with a powerful header and showcased steadfast defensive prowess throughout the match.
Nicolas Tagliafico (7/10):
Substituted early in the second half, Tagliafico adapted commendably to a central defensive role despite lacking familiarity. Contributed effectively to transition play with midfield.
Nehuen Perez (5/10):
Had few defensive tests but displayed some sloppiness in offensive maneuvers. Given the opportunity to impress Scaloni ahead of the Copa America, his performance may have left some uncertainties.
Midfield
Enzo Fernandez (8/10):
Impressed with exceptional passing accuracy, netted a goal, and fulfilled Scaloni's expectations and more within his 45-minute appearance.
Giovanni Lo Celso (8/10):
Delivered a standout performance, showcasing his talent despite facing challenges for consistent playing time at the club level. Demonstrated why Scaloni continues to trust him with a stellar midfield display, capped off with a goal.
Leandro Paredes (7/10):
Provided excellent stability as the lone defensive midfielder, facilitating smooth transitions between defense and attack.
Rodrigo De Paul (7/10):
Adapted effectively to a wide role, supporting Di Maria and contributing significantly during his 65 minutes on the field. Displayed top-notch performance as a tenacious presence for Atletico Madrid.
Attack
Angel Di Maria (9/10):
Delivered a superb performance as a second-striker alongside Martinez, showcasing cleverness in tight spaces and providing a beautiful assist from a corner kick for the opening goal.
Lautaro Martinez (6/10):
Had a somewhat underwhelming appearance from the Inter star, facing challenges in converting chances in the box despite several attempts. However, he managed a splendid assist for Lo Celso's goal, contributing positively to the team's attacking play.
Subs & Manager
Nicolas Otamendi (7/10):
Entered the match at halftime and played a vital role in securing a clean sheet for the defense, effectively closing down the game.
Alejandro Garnacho (6/10):
Displayed eagerness to impact the game but seemed to force plays at times, despite numerous opportunities off the bench. Showed versatility on the flank for Argentina, albeit with mixed results.
Valentin Barco (7/10):
Made an immediate impact upon entering the field, showcasing solid defensive contributions and linking play effectively with the midfield.
Facundo Buonanotte (7/10):
Demonstrated promising movements in the attacking third, highlighting his potential as a super-sub option for Scaloni at the Copa America.
Alexis Mac Allister (N/A):
Introduced late in the game, the Liverpool player showed composure in midfield during his brief appearance.
Nahuel Molina (N/A):
Substituted in with minimal time left on the clock, but had limited opportunities to make an impact as the defense remained untested.
Lionel Scaloni (8/10):
Impressed with tactical decisions and adept management of the available squad, successfully deploying players out of their usual positions. While the true test may lie ahead against stronger opponents, Scaloni has Argentina shaping up as formidable contenders for the Copa America title once again.
Argentina vs El Salvador
