It was a masterclass for the ages from Lionel Messi as Argentina turned the tables on England at the World Cup. The Albiceleste maestro had been contained with military precision by Thomas Tuchel's well-drilled England side in the opening stages of their recent encounter – but one subtle shift in tactics changed everything.
For a full hour, England's plan to neutralise Messi seemed to be working. Statistical analysis revealed that his influence was significantly curtailed in critical attacking zones, with his possession within the central penalty area limited to just one tackle from Elliot Anderson after Anthony Gordon had given England the lead. Moreover, his sprinting speed accounted for a meagre 4.3% of the total distance covered – lower than his previous two World Cup outings against Switzerland (4.6%) and Egypt (5.4%). Even more impressive was Messi's limited attempts on goal, with just one long-range effort being blocked before it even reached the England box.
Messi's initial heat map showed him operating predictably in his familiar right half-space – but it was a different story after the break. The 39-year-old began to dictate proceedings from the flank, unleashing an astonishing six open-play crosses from this position in the second half alone. This figure is a staggering elevation for a player who has averaged just 2.3 crosses (including set plays) per 90 minutes in league football since 2015 – only topped by two previous World Cup games.
One of these precise deliveries led to a danger-filled Nico González header, which Jordan Pickford did well to save just before the second hydration break. This moment sparked Tuchel's decision to bring on Ezri Konsa, followed by Dan Burn and a switch to a back five – but it was Messi who remained the master of his own destiny.