**Argentina Player Ratings: Messi Dimmed Vs Paraguay**

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Post on Nov 15, 2024

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Argentina Player Ratings: Messi Dimmed vs Paraguay

Argentina's much-anticipated clash against Paraguay in the 2023 Copa América ended in a frustrating 0-0 draw, leaving fans questioning the team's performance. While Lionel Messi's presence always commands attention, his influence was noticeably muted, prompting a closer look at individual player ratings. This analysis dissects each player's contribution, highlighting both strengths and weaknesses in a match that underscored Argentina's need for improved attacking fluidity.

Lionel Messi: 6/10 - A Dimmed Superstar

While Messi remains Argentina's talisman, his performance against Paraguay fell short of expectations. He showcased his usual dribbling skills and tireless work rate, but the Paraguay defense successfully neutralized his goal-scoring threat. He lacked the decisive final ball, often opting for safer passes instead of his trademark incisive through balls. While his involvement was consistent, the overall impact was less than his usual electrifying effect. The lack of consistent service from midfield also hampered his ability to shine.

Goalkeeper and Defense: A Solid Foundation

Emiliano Martínez: 7/10 – Martínez provided a reassuring presence in goal, confidently dealing with Paraguay's limited attacking threats. He commanded his area well and made a crucial save in the second half to keep a clean sheet, proving once again why he's a vital part of the Argentinian defense.

Backline (Montiel, Romero, Otamendi, Acuña): 7/10 - The defensive unit performed admirably, forming a sturdy barrier against Paraguay's attacks. Otamendi's experience was crucial in organizing the defense, while Acuña's overlapping runs provided some attacking impetus from the left flank. The Paraguayans struggled to penetrate this solid defensive structure.

Midfield: Struggling for Creativity

Argentina's midfield was the biggest area of concern. The lack of creativity and incisive passing hampered their ability to supply Messi and the forwards with quality chances.

Rodrigo De Paul: 6/10 - De Paul worked tirelessly, but his usual dynamism was missing. He struggled to dictate the tempo of the game and his passing accuracy was below par.

Alexis Mac Allister: 6/10 – Mac Allister showed glimpses of his talent, but he wasn't able to consistently influence the game. He needs to improve his final ball delivery to be more effective in this system.

Enzo Fernández: 6.5/10 - Arguably the best of the midfield three, Fernández displayed his technical ability and defensive contributions, but even he found it difficult to break down the Paraguayan defense.

Attack: Lacking Cutting Edge

While Lautaro Martínez worked tirelessly, the Argentinian attack lacked a clinical edge.

Lautaro Martínez: 6.5/10 - Lautaro's work rate was commendable, but he failed to capitalize on the limited chances created. His movement was good, but his finishing needs improvement.

Julián Álvarez: 6/10 - Álvarez, coming in as a substitute, had little impact on the game. He struggled to get involved and his limited time on the pitch didn't allow him to showcase his full potential.

Overall: Room for Improvement

The 0-0 draw against Paraguay highlighted Argentina's need for improvement, particularly in midfield. While the defense was solid and Martínez was reliable in goal, the lack of creativity and clinical finishing in the final third prevented them from breaking down a stubborn Paraguayan defense. Messi's subdued performance further emphasizes the team's reliance on a single player and the need for greater attacking balance. Future matches will reveal whether Argentina can address these issues and return to their winning ways. The Copa América journey is still young, but this performance served as a wake-up call.

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