Argentina's 2014 World Cup Team: A Look Back

by Jhon Lennon 45 views

Ah, the 2014 World Cup! What a ride, right? For Argentina fans, it was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with nail-biting matches and heart-stopping moments. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Argentina squad that came so close to lifting the trophy.

The Road to the Final

Argentina's journey to the final in Brazil was nothing short of dramatic. Led by the one and only Lionel Messi, La Albiceleste navigated a tricky group stage, edging past Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, and Nigeria. Messi's goals were crucial, and the team started to build momentum as they headed into the knockout rounds.

The Round of 16 clash against Switzerland was a tense affair, with Ángel Di María scoring a late winner in extra time. Next up was Belgium in the quarterfinals, where Gonzalo Higuaín's early goal proved to be enough to secure a spot in the semifinals. The semifinal against the Netherlands was a tactical battle that went all the way to penalties. After a goalless draw, Argentina held their nerve to win the shootout, setting up a final showdown with Germany.

Key Players and Tactical Setup

So, who were the guys that made this journey so memorable? Let's dive into some of the key players and the tactical setup that coach Alejandro Sabella employed.

  • Lionel Messi: No surprise here! Messi was the heart and soul of the team, leading the line and creating chances. His dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability were vital to Argentina's success. He ended up winning the golden ball of the tournament.
  • Ángel Di MarĂ­a: Di MarĂ­a's pace and creativity on the wing were a constant threat to opposing defenses. His injury in the quarter-finals was a big blow to Argentina's chances in the final.
  • Javier Mascherano: The midfield general, Mascherano, provided the steel and determination that the team needed. His tackles, interceptions, and leadership were crucial in protecting the defense.
  • Sergio AgĂŒero: AgĂŒero, although not always a starter, provided firepower off the bench. His energy and eye for goal made him a valuable asset.
  • Gonzalo HiguaĂ­n: HiguaĂ­n led the line and provided a focal point for the attack. While he had his critics, he scored some important goals along the way.

Sabella's tactical setup was generally a 4-3-3 or a 4-4-2, depending on the opponent. The focus was on being solid defensively and then unleashing Messi and the other attacking players on the counterattack. Mascherano's role in midfield was to break up play and shield the defense, while the full-backs provided width and support.

The Final Heartbreak

The final against Germany was an epic encounter that went down to the wire. Argentina had chances to score, with HiguaĂ­n and Messi both missing opportunities in the first half. Germany also had their moments, but the game remained goalless after 90 minutes.

In extra time, Mario Götze scored the decisive goal for Germany, breaking Argentine hearts. It was a cruel blow for Messi and his teammates, who had come so close to winning the World Cup. Despite the defeat, the team was greeted as heroes upon their return to Argentina.

The Full Squad List

For those of you who want to jog your memory, here's the full Argentina squad list for the 2014 World Cup:

  1. Goalkeepers:
    • Mariano AndĂșjar
    • AgustĂ­n Orion
    • Sergio Romero
  2. Defenders:
    • Lisandro LĂłpez
    • Federico FernĂĄndez
    • Ezequiel Garay
    • Marcos Rojo
    • Hugo Campagnaro
    • MartĂ­n Demichelis
    • Pablo Zabaleta
  3. Midfielders:
    • Ricardo Álvarez
    • Augusto FernĂĄndez
    • Fernando Gago
    • Javier Mascherano
    • Maxi RodrĂ­guez
    • JosĂ© Sosa
    • Lucas Biglia
    • Ángel Di MarĂ­a
    • Enzo PĂ©rez
  4. Forwards:
    • Sergio AgĂŒero
    • Gonzalo HiguaĂ­n
    • Lionel Messi
    • Ezequiel Lavezzi
    • Rodrigo Palacio

Where are They Now?

It's been several years since that World Cup final, so what are these players up to now? Well, some have retired from professional football, while others are still playing at various clubs around the world. Messi, of course, is still going strong and has cemented his place as one of the greatest players of all time.

Mascherano has also hung up his boots after a long and successful career. Di MarĂ­a continues to shine for both club and country. Many of the other players have transitioned into coaching or other roles within the football world.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the defeat in the final, the 2014 Argentina squad left a lasting legacy. They showed the world that Argentina was still a force to be reckoned with in international football. The team's passion, determination, and never-say-die attitude inspired a new generation of players and fans.

The 2014 World Cup also highlighted the importance of Messi to the Argentina team. While he had already achieved so much at club level, he was determined to bring glory to his country. Although he didn't manage to lift the trophy, his performances in the tournament cemented his status as a legend.

Conclusion

Looking back, the 2014 Argentina World Cup team was a special group of players who came agonizingly close to achieving their dream. The memories of that tournament will live long in the memory of Argentine fans, even though the ending wasn't the one they had hoped for. The team's journey, the key players, and the tactical setup all contributed to a memorable chapter in Argentina's football history. So, here's to the Argentina squad of 2014 – a team that gave it their all and made us proud! It’s always great to remember the players, the excitement, and the sheer emotion of that World Cup. For Argentina fans, it’s a bittersweet memory, but one that’s worth cherishing. And who knows, maybe next time, the trophy will finally come home! What do you guys think?