Argentina's Copa America 2021 Squad: Full List & Analysis

Alright, footy fans! Let's dive deep into Argentina's squad for the 2021 Copa America. This was a huge tournament for Argentina, especially considering the drought they had endured without a major international trophy. So, who did Lionel Scaloni, the manager, call upon to try and break that spell? Let's get into the specifics and analyze the key players and tactical choices.

The Goalkeepers

When assembling a competitive team, a reliable goalkeeper is absolutely paramount. For the 2021 Copa America, Argentina's goalkeeping options were a blend of experience and emerging talent, providing a solid foundation at the back.

• Emiliano Martínez: Undoubtedly the number one choice, Martínez had an incredible season leading up to the tournament. His shot-stopping ability, command of the penalty area, and overall presence were vital. He brought a sense of confidence to the defense, and his performances throughout the Copa America were nothing short of spectacular. He proved to be a game-changer, providing crucial saves in pivotal moments, including penalty shootouts. Martínez’s rise to prominence was one of the major success stories for Argentina.
• Franco Armani: A veteran presence in the squad, Armani provided valuable experience. While he might not have been the first choice, his inclusion offered stability and leadership within the team. His experience in big matches was an asset, ensuring a calm and composed backup option.
• Agustín Marchesín: Another solid option, Marchesín brought further depth to the goalkeeping department. His skills and experience made him a reliable choice if needed, ensuring that Argentina had sufficient cover in this crucial position. Having three capable goalkeepers allowed for tactical flexibility and security, knowing that the team was well-protected no matter who was between the posts. The goalkeeping choices reflected Scaloni’s emphasis on reliability and experience, combining seasoned veterans with in-form stars to create a formidable last line of defense. Their collective performance played a significant role in Argentina's success in the tournament.

The Defenders

A solid defense is the backbone of any successful team, and Argentina's defensive lineup for the 2021 Copa America was a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents. The selected defenders brought a blend of experience, tenacity, and tactical versatility to the squad. Here’s a breakdown:

• Nicolás Otamendi: An experienced and often controversial figure, Otamendi's inclusion provided a no-nonsense approach to the defense. Known for his tough tackling and aerial ability, he brought a level of aggression and determination to the backline. Despite occasional lapses in judgment, his passion and commitment were undeniable, making him a key figure in the heart of the defense. His experience was crucial in guiding the younger players and maintaining defensive solidarity.
• Germán Pezzella: Pezzella offered a reliable and composed presence in the defense. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions made him a valuable asset. He provided stability and consistency, often partnering well with Otamendi to form a solid central defensive partnership. His calmness under pressure helped to organize the defense and minimize errors.
• Cristian Romero: A rising star in Argentinian football, Romero's inclusion was highly anticipated. Known for his pace, strength, and excellent tackling ability, he brought a dynamic and modern element to the defense. His performances were impressive, showcasing his potential to become a mainstay in the national team for years to come. His partnership with Otamendi was particularly effective, combining experience with youthful exuberance.
• Lisandro Martínez: Martínez provided versatility, capable of playing both as a center-back and a left-back. His technical ability and composure on the ball made him a valuable asset in building play from the back. He offered tactical flexibility and a different dimension to the defense, allowing Scaloni to adapt his strategies as needed.
• Marcos Acuña: A dynamic and energetic left-back, Acuña brought pace and attacking intent to the flank. His ability to deliver crosses and contribute to the attack made him a key player in both defense and offense. His work rate and determination were evident in every game, providing width and dynamism to the team.
• Nicolás Tagliafico: Another solid option at left-back, Tagliafico offered experience and defensive stability. Known for his consistent performances and tactical awareness, he provided a reliable presence on the left side of the defense. His ability to defend diligently and contribute to the attack made him a valuable member of the squad.
• Gonzalo Montiel: Montiel was a dependable right-back, known for his solid defensive work and ability to contribute to the attack. His versatility and work rate made him a valuable asset, providing cover and competition on the right flank. He was known for his commitment and willingness to put in the hard yards for the team.
• Nahuel Molina: Another option at right-back, Molina brought pace and attacking flair to the position. His ability to get forward and deliver crosses made him a valuable asset in offensive situations. He offered a different dimension to the right-back role, providing a more attacking outlet.

The defensive lineup was carefully selected to provide a balance of experience, youth, and versatility. Scaloni’s choices reflected a focus on building a resilient and adaptable defense capable of withstanding pressure and supporting the team’s attacking ambitions. The blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents proved to be a winning formula, contributing significantly to Argentina's success in the tournament.

The Midfielders

The midfield is the engine room of any football team, dictating the tempo, controlling possession, and providing crucial support to both the defense and attack. Argentina’s midfield for the 2021 Copa America was a blend of creativity, grit, and tactical intelligence. The midfielders chosen were instrumental in Argentina’s gameplay, providing the necessary balance and dynamism. Let's break it down:

• Rodrigo De Paul: De Paul emerged as a vital cog in Argentina's midfield. His energy, work rate, and ability to win the ball back were crucial in breaking up opposition attacks. Beyond his defensive contributions, De Paul also possessed the vision and passing range to create opportunities in the final third. His partnership with Messi was particularly effective, as he consistently provided support and an outlet for the star forward.
• Leandro Paredes: A composed and technically gifted midfielder, Paredes provided a calming presence in the center of the park. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and distribute the ball effectively made him a key player in controlling possession. He also contributed defensively, making timely interceptions and shielding the backline. His set-piece delivery was another valuable asset.
• Giovani Lo Celso: Lo Celso brought creativity and flair to the midfield. His dribbling skills, vision, and ability to pick out a pass made him a threat in attacking positions. He was capable of unlocking defenses and creating goal-scoring opportunities. His versatility allowed him to play in various midfield roles, providing tactical flexibility.
• Guido Rodríguez: A more defensive-minded midfielder, Rodríguez provided crucial cover for the backline. His tackling ability, positional awareness, and work rate made him a valuable asset in breaking up opposition attacks. He offered stability and solidity in the midfield, allowing the more attacking players to express themselves.
• Exequiel Palacios: Palacios was a dynamic and energetic midfielder, known for his box-to-box ability. His work rate, tackling, and passing range made him a valuable asset in both defense and attack. He provided energy and drive to the midfield, contributing to both phases of play.
• Nicolás Domínguez: Domínguez offered versatility and dynamism in the midfield. His ability to play in various positions and contribute both defensively and offensively made him a valuable squad player. He brought energy and enthusiasm to the team, always willing to put in the hard yards.

The midfield selection reflected Scaloni's emphasis on balance and versatility. The combination of creative playmakers, defensive stalwarts, and energetic box-to-box midfielders ensured that Argentina could adapt to different game situations. The midfield's ability to control possession, win back the ball, and create scoring opportunities was crucial in Argentina's Copa America success. The blend of experience and youth provided a dynamic and adaptable engine room that drove the team forward.

The Forwards

The forward line is where games are won and lost, and Argentina’s attacking options for the 2021 Copa America were centered around one incomparable figure. The supporting cast was crucial in providing goals, assists, and overall attacking threat. Here’s a closer look at the forwards Scaloni chose:

• Lionel Messi: Arguably the greatest footballer of all time, Messi was the centerpiece of Argentina's attack. His dribbling skills, vision, and goal-scoring ability made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. He was the creative spark, the goalscorer, and the leader of the team. The entire team was built around maximizing his talents, and his performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of exceptional. Winning the Copa America was a crowning achievement in his illustrious career.
• Lautaro Martínez: Martínez provided a dynamic and energetic presence upfront. His pace, work rate, and finishing ability made him a valuable partner for Messi. He was capable of scoring goals from various situations and provided a constant threat to opposition defenses. His partnership with Messi was particularly effective, as they combined well to create numerous scoring opportunities.
• Ángel Di María: An experienced and skillful winger, Di María brought creativity and flair to the attack. His dribbling skills, crossing ability, and eye for goal made him a valuable asset. He was capable of unlocking defenses and providing crucial assists. His experience and composure were invaluable in big matches, and his goal in the final was the decisive moment that secured the title.
• Sergio Agüero: A veteran striker with a proven track record, Agüero provided a valuable option off the bench. His goal-scoring instincts and experience made him a threat in the final third. While he might not have been a starter, his presence in the squad added depth and quality to the attacking options.
• Nicolás González: González offered versatility and energy to the forward line. His ability to play in various attacking positions and contribute both defensively and offensively made him a valuable squad player. He brought pace and enthusiasm to the team, always willing to work hard for the team.
• Joaquín Correa: Correa provided a dynamic and versatile option in the attack. His ability to dribble, pass, and score made him a valuable asset in various attacking positions. He offered tactical flexibility and a different dimension to the forward line.

The forward selection was designed to maximize Messi's impact while providing support, creativity, and goal-scoring threat from other players. The combination of Messi's brilliance, Martínez's dynamism, and Di María's experience proved to be a winning formula. The forwards were instrumental in Argentina's Copa America triumph, providing the goals and attacking impetus needed to secure the title. Scaloni’s tactical approach focused on creating opportunities for the forwards and allowing them to express their talents, resulting in a potent and effective attacking force.

Final Thoughts

The 2021 Copa America was a monumental achievement for Argentina, and the squad that Scaloni assembled played a crucial role in ending the nation's trophy drought. From the reliable goalkeepers to the tenacious defenders, the dynamic midfielders, and the lethal forwards, each player contributed to the team's success. The blend of experience and youth, combined with tactical flexibility and a clear game plan, proved to be a winning formula. And, of course, Lionel Messi finally getting his hands on a major international trophy with Argentina made it all the more special. What a team, what a tournament!