How defending the crown might be an uphill battle for Argentina

When Argentina lifted the World Cup in Qatar four years ago, they ended a 36-year wait for football's greatest prize and cemented Lionel Messi's place among the sport's immortals. Now, as the defending champions prepare for another campaign on the world's biggest stage, a different challenge awaits: proving that their triumph was not the end of a journey but the beginning of a dynasty.

History offers a warning. Retaining the World Cup is one of football's most difficult achievements. Since Italy's back-to-back titles in 1934 and 1938, only Brazil have successfully defended the trophy, in 1958 and 1962. Yet Argentina arrive at the tournament once again among the favourites, armed with a squad that blends proven winners with a promising new generation.

Argentina will begin their title defence against Algeria on Tuesday (16 June) [(BST 7am, 17 June], a fixture that could set the tone for their campaign. An opening victory would not only ease early pressure but also provide momentum as the Albiceleste seek to navigate another demanding World Cup journey.

Manager Lionel Scaloni's approach is built on balance. Rather than relying solely on individual brilliance, Argentina have developed a system that combines tactical discipline, relentless work rate and technical quality across the pitch.

The foundation of that system lies in defence. Argentina's preferred central defensive pairing of Lisandro Martínez and Cristian Romero remains one of the strongest in international football. Romero's aggressive style complements Martínez's ability to play out from the back and break opposition lines with progressive passing.

However, the defensive unit enters the tournament with some uncertainty. Injuries have created concerns in key areas, forcing Scaloni to make adjustments. Most notably, AFC Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi was called up to Argentina's 26-man squad after Leonardo Balerdi suffered a calf injury and was ruled out of the tournament. While Senesi adds valuable depth and experience, the late change highlights the delicate balance between squad stability and unforeseen setbacks.

The full-back positions also remain a relative concern. Nahuel Molina offers energy and attacking width on the right but Argentina appear less settled on the flanks than they do in central defence. Against elite opponents, those areas could become targets.

If the defence provides security, the midfield supplies the heartbeat of the team. Much of Argentina's success may depend on how effectively this unit controls matches.

Enzo Fernández has become indispensable to Scaloni's plans. His ability to progress the ball from deep positions allows Argentina to transition smoothly from defence to attack. Whether through incisive passing or intelligent movement, Fernández frequently acts as the bridge connecting every phase of play.

Alongside him, Rodrigo De Paul continues to perform one of the team's most important yet understated roles. Often described as Messi's protector, De Paul provides defensive balance, pressing intensity and tactical discipline. His work often allows Argentina's more creative players to flourish.

The emergence of Giuliano Simeone has added another dimension. Renowned for his relentless pressing and boundless energy, the young forward embodies the intensity that modern tournament football demands. His willingness to run, chase and disrupt opponents could prove crucial in tight knockout matches.

Naturally, much of the world's attention remains fixed on Messi. Yet this Argentina side appears increasingly designed to support its captain rather than depend entirely upon him. At 38, Messi is expected to play a more measured role, conserving energy for decisive moments rather than carrying the team through every minute.

That strategy places greater importance on players such as Julián Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez. Álvarez's tireless movement and pressing allow Messi greater freedom, while Lautaro provides a reliable goal-scoring presence capable of punishing defensive mistakes. Thiago Almada and Nicolás González offer additional creativity and depth from wider areas, giving Argentina multiple attacking options.

The squad's future also looks secure. Talents such as Nico Paz and Valentín Barco represent the next generation expected to carry Argentina forward long after Messi's international career ends. Their versatility and technical quality provide encouraging signs for the years ahead.

So, can Argentina retain the World Cup?

The answer lies somewhere between optimism and caution. The defending champions possess experience, tactical cohesion and perhaps the most complete team structure of any contender. They also benefit from a winning culture built over years of success. Argentina's 2021 Copa América triumph ended a 28-year wait for a major trophy and marked the beginning of a new era under Lionel Scaloni. The team followed that success by winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar before lifting the Copa América again in 2024. 

Those victories have turned Argentina into one of international football's most successful and confident teams.

Yet tournament football rarely follows script. Injuries, squad depth concerns and the inevitable pressure of defending a title present significant obstacles. Argentina may no longer be the surprise package they once were; every opponent now sees them as the team to beat.

What remains clear is that the Albiceleste have all the ingredients to mount another deep run. Whether they ultimately lift the trophy again will depend on the same qualities that brought them success four years ago: collective effort, tactical discipline and the ability to rise when the pressure is highest.