#3 New generation, new belief needed
You can be rest assured this generation of Argentine players have stopped believing they can win finals for their nation. A look at their game at New Jersey on Sunday had a story in itself. They started with little adventure or attacking intent.
Things got worse once Marcus Rojo got (unfairly) red carded. Even as a viewer I started getting edgy. It’s just not in the stars – I started thinking. Possibly the team too felt that way. They lacked ideas, enthusiasm and killer instinct. In fact, most of the extra time period saw the Chilean team attack with more vigour.
The only glimmer of hope came when Arturo Vidal missed his spot kick. The sinking feeling, though, returned instantly when Messi missed his. It’s just not in their destiny. The generation of players are absolutely correct to retire. Argentina need young blood, with fresh belief to take them ahead.
And they are a nation who frequently churn out quality players, so fans needn’t worry.