Messi’s magic, Martinez’s mentality and Scaloni’s tactical nous were key factors:
- Lionel Messi is only player to score in every stage of a World Cup
- Emiliano Martinez has a 100% record in shootouts with Argentina
- Lionel Scaloni was tactically flexible and shrewd throughout the tournament
The World Cup final was a fittingly thrilling conclusion to an enthralling tournament and the 3-3 epic between Argentina and France, settled on penalties in the South Americans’ favour, will live long in the memory.
It brought a third World Cup for Argentina, though their first since 1986, when the late, great Diego Maradona led them to glory in Mexico.
Tactical analysis
Scaloni deployed a back three against the Netherlands, combatting Louis van Gaal’s own 3-5-2 system. Scaloni switched back to a 4-4-2 shape in the semi-finals, with Leandro Paredes drafted in to help stem Croatia’s midfield trio of Modric, Mateo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic. Even for the final, Argentina’s coach had a trick up his sleeve, bringing in Angel Di Maria, playing him high on the left flank and ensuring his side dominated every area of the game for the opening hour.
Scaloni’s best facet in Qatar was his ability to switch between systems. He came up with tactical gameplans that often nullified the opposition.
