4. Supporting players for Messi: Pavón, Dybala, Giovani Lo Celso not in Starting XI
Leonel Messi attempted 11 shots for Argentina vs Iceland (the most he’s ever attempted in a World Cup game), but he still didn’t manage to score a goal. Since 1966, only Luigi Riva has attempted more shots in a World Cup game (13 vs both Sweden and Israel in 1970) without scoring than Lionel Messi did today against Iceland (since 1966). Aguero and Higuain need to share the attacking responsibilities.
Argentina culminated the first time with a 78% possession. Messi completed 352 correct passes (92% effectiveness).Argentina needs to find the right attacking combination for Messi. Dybala has been long ignored in the Argentina playing XI due to his similar playing style and position to Messi but after the disastrous game against Iceland, Sampaoli should consider playing Paulo Dybala and Giovani Lo Celso in the midfield to bring some flair and speed in that slow looking Argentine midfield.
Fact:The last time that Lionel Messi attempted as many shots without scoring (11) in a competitive game for club or country was in December 2017 for Barcelona vs Deportivo de La Coruña.