Lionel Scaloni reveals Argentina squad struggled with nerves during Lionel Messi's farewell
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni admits his players were overwhelmed by emotion during Lionel Messi's final international match against Benin.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Author: Bryan Berlin
The atmosphere during Argentina's 3-0 victory against Benin was defined by the emotional weight of Lionel Messi's final international appearance. Head coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that the gravity of the occasion directly affected his squad's performance, as the players struggled to maintain their usual composure.
Scaloni noted that his team was so focused on giving their captain the perfect send-off that they found it difficult to execute their tactical plans in the opening stages of the match.
"In the first half, the teammates themselves did not know which play to choose, they were nervous, because it was a special night. It is not easy for the teammate who wants him to leave in the best way. For them it is also unparalleled." Lionel Scaloni
The manager, who was seen visibly emotional during the national anthem, emphasized that Messi's influence extended far beyond his technical ability. He described the "aura" that the Rosario native brought to the dressing room as something unparalleled in his long career, noting that it will be a significant void to fill.
Looking ahead, the coaching staff is tasked with restructuring a team that has revolved around Messi for nearly two decades. Scaloni expressed confidence in the new generation of talent, explaining that the tactical focus is now shifting toward a collective effort that utilizes new concepts, such as playing with wingers, to adapt to life after their legendary captain.