How Argentina won the 2022 World Cup: A Tactical Retrospective
A look back at Argentina's 2022 World Cup success in Qatar, highlighting Lionel Scaloni's tactics, Messi's leadership, and that iconic Martinez save.
Argentina's triumph at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar marked the crowning achievement of Lionel Messi's career. Under manager Lionel Scaloni, the team displayed remarkable tactical flexibility and squad cohesion throughout the tournament.
Scaloni, in his first major managerial role, proved his adaptability by frequently shifting systems. Starting with a 4-4-2, the side transitioned through 5-3-2 and 4-3-3 formations, finding the right balance for each specific knockout opponent. The emergence of midfielders like Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister, paired with Julian Alvarez's tireless running up front, allowed Messi to operate effectively without the burden of excessive defensive work.
Messi himself was the focal point, contributing seven goals and providing moments of brilliance whenever the team faced adversity. His leadership on and off the pitch was instrumental in steering the squad through a challenging tournament.
The final against France was a rollercoaster. Despite leading 2-0 and later 3-2 in extra time, Argentina was pushed to the limit, eventually securing the trophy via a penalty shootout.
The defining moment of the tournament was goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's stop from Kolo Muani in the final minute of extra time. Emiliano Martinez
That save, arguably the most significant in football history, preserved Argentina's dream. With Martinez also excelling in penalty shootouts, the squad demonstrated the resilience needed to become world champions, outperforming their opponents in expected goals throughout the knockout rounds.