Can Lionel Messi do this on his own? He has this far, becoming the first Argentine to net in all three group stage matches of a World Cup since 1958. His double helped defeat Nigeria 3-2 to send his side through to the round of 16 with maximum points. That’s where things get rather more serious, however. And the fact that his compatriot Sergio Aguero limped off, injured again, should be a serious worry for coach Alejandro Sabella.
By the standards of any World Cup, Argentina’s group is a modest one. You can of course only defeat what’s in front of you and Messi has been able to do that with relative ease. But the concerns about the form of his attacking colleagues remain. Gonzalo Higuain has seemed woefully off the pace, and almost reluctant to get involved. But the main issue is Aguero.
The Manchester City man is an exceptional footballer, but his hamstring and calf problems continue to stunt his development into a bona-fide world star. The tantalising prospect of him playing in tandem with Messi at this tournament has been replaced by frustration, and, ultimately, submission to yet another setback.
In the 38th minute the stretcher was out, but Aguero chose to limp into the dugout. Irrespective of whether he is able to play a further part in this tournament, it’s clear that he wasn’t fit beforehand, and he most certainly isn’t fit now.
#WorldCup: What Aguero’s Injury Means To Messi
More articles
- Advertisement -
