Argentina captain, Lionel Messi has admitted that his side struggled to execute their pressing game during their FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Cape Verde national football team.
The reigning world champions were pushed to the limit by the Blue Sharks in a fiercely contested encounter at the Miami Stadium. The match ended 1-1 after regulation time before Argentina secured a 3-2 victory in extra time to book their place in the next round.
Argentina’s winning goal came through an own goal by Diney Borges, ending Cape Verde’s impressive resistance and ensuring Lionel Scaloni’s men advanced in the tournament.
Speaking after the match, Messi acknowledged that Argentina failed to press effectively, allowing Cape Verde to dominate possession for long periods and force the South American side onto the back foot.
“I think we couldn’t press them well, our lines were kind of far apart at times,” Messi said via FIFA.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner explained that Argentina’s defensive shape lacked cohesion, making it difficult for the team to close down spaces and regain possession.
“When we wanted to jump from the defensive pivot, it was too far a distance for the center-backs, and we ended up a bit disjointed,” he said.
“They always had an extra man because we couldn’t match up, and that’s why they kept the ball and made us run, because we couldn’t press them properly.”
Despite the victory, Messi’s assessment highlights areas Argentina will need to improve as they continue their quest to retain the FIFA World Cup title.
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