Swiss show way to stop Messi, almost
By getting two men, Gokhan Inler and Valon Behrami, around him, Switzerland subdued the Argentine
LONDON: Argentina’s World Cupwinning side of 1986 are often unfairly described as Diego Maradona and 10 mediocre teammates, and the 2014 version may be given a similar label. On the basis of this display, it is Lionel Messi and little else. Switzerland caused Argentina problems simply because they were organised, disciplined and boasted a clear gameplan – something you cannot say about Alejandro Sabella’s side.
Sergio Agüero’s injury meant Ezequiel Lavezzi came into the side on the right, and Argentina switched to a 4-4-1-1 system — Lavezzi and Ángel di María played as conventional wingers, sometimes switching flanks but rarely moving inside. More than ever, there was great responsibility upon Messi to dictate the game from the classic No10 role.
Messi was Argentina’s liveliest player throughout, with his side immediately looking for him, firing forward balls into his feet between the lines. Switzerland’s defensive tactics were simple but effective — get two men around him quickly. Gökhan Inler and Valon Behrami — the Swiss midfield duo who have reportedly fallen out and stopped talking, yet maintain a great relationship because they play together each week for Napoli — acted as a fearsome destroyer duo. Messi received the ball to feet and jinked past one man but rarely the second.
Everything good about Argentina came from Messi. By half-time there was a decent cross from the left flank and some stereotypical one-twos, but he was constantly let down by his teammates’ underperformance. Di María, the second most important Argentina player in this system, was eventually the hero but constantly frustrated with his final pass. Argentina lacked exciting alternatives from the bench — Rodrigo Palacio replacing Lavezzi was simply one hard-working, willing runner replacing another. There was no change of shape, no attempt to raise the tempo of the game.