This was certainly the case at the 2014 World Cup when Dutch coach Louis van Gaal had to prepare for the threat of Messi in the semi-finals in Brazil, although they still lost. What he did learn, however, was that defending against Messi is a collective act.
Messi then had more of a playmaker role, but was assigned a center back to man-mark, as well as receiving special attention from Daley Blind, who played in central midfield and provided much of Argentina’s line of supply. was successfully disconnected.
The South Americans won, progressing to the final after a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.
The blind Dutch is the only survivor after eight years in the team but now plays as a left wingback, while Messi, 35, has a different ragged striker role in Argentina’s new-look team.