Just like the whole of Argentina relied on Maradona to deliver when La Albiceleste faced West Germany in the World Cup final back in 1986, the entire nation will now be looking for Lionel Messi to make the difference in arguably the biggest game of his footbaling career.
The Barcelona star has often been criticized for failing to replicate his club form for his national team however this time around the mercurial forward has silenced his critics by leading from the front. Messi has time and time again produced memorable moments in the competition and has helped his team get out of difficult situations.
It was his last ditch goal against Iran which helped Argentina record a 1-0 victory over their counterparts and helped them finish the group with a perfect record. His blistering run against Switzerland proved to be decisive as he danced his way through the Swiss defence ultimately setting up Di Maria for the winner.
However it is important to understand that a player like Messi needs special attention something which he is likely to get from the German players. It is inevitable that the Barcelona ace will be heavily marked and will not be given much room to operate.
He has been asked to lead the line for the national side on a number of occasions however that role does not always suit him especially when the opposition is adamant on defending deep. Messi is more effective when he is give more freedom to operate thus playing a number ten role is what suits him more.
This position allows Messi to better interlink with the other players on the pitch and also gives him the opportunity to further expose his expansive skills. Furthermore the 27 year old also has a good shot on him and is also capable or making the difference from outside the box.
A player like Messi is no stranger to players marking him tightly and in most occasions it is the Barcelona superstar who has emerged victorious. It is inevitable that Low will appoint a midfielder to follow the Argentinean ace like a shadow but it will not come as a surprise if Messi breaks free and once again proves to be the decisive factor for his side.
