Argentina marched into the World Cup without Lionel Messi during the March break, but they still showcased their champion quality. The world title holders clinched a 1-0 victory over Uruguay before dismantling arch-foes Brazil with a resounding 4-1 win in Buenos Aires.
Brazilian skipper Marquinhos stepped forward to issue an apology to supporters following what he termed an “embarrassing” performance. On the flip side, several Argentine players came forth admitting the ill-toned remarks from Barcelona’s Raphinha prior to the clash spurred them on.
In conversation with Brazilian icon Romario before the match, the Barcelona winger boasted: “We are going to beat them up on and off the pitch if necessary. I am going to score. They can s— themselves! In Argentina, you have to hit them, it hurts! They’re b——-.”
Liverpool star Alexis Mac Allister turned heads with an exemplary show for Argentina against Brazil, notching their third with an astute lob after latching onto a cross. His night ended in the 76th minute – shortly after Argentina netted their fourth goal, sealing the celebratory evening.
Basking in the glory of an unforgettable match, the Argentine press was effusive about the impact of the Liverpool standout.
Pagina 12 awarded Mac Allister a glowing 9/10, commenting on his versatility: “He was one of the most advanced players on the team, sometimes even playing as a false nine when Julián Alvarez started running all over the pitch. One of those players who is always signaling to organize the rest. Another tactical performance. He showed his technique when he connected with Enzo Fernandez’s pass for the 3-1. And he didn’t escape contact.”
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La Nacion bestowed upon him a solid 7/10, noting his influence: “He improves what he touches. Another highlight in the national team’s concert of virtuoso midfielders. He assisted Paredes and broke free to exploit the gaps Brazil left in their own half. He had great intuition to storm into the opponent’s box, as he did for his goal with a subtle touch. If a teammate is in trouble, Mac Allister will always appear to relieve him.”
TYC Sports also assigned Mac Allister a 7/10, praising his all-roundedness: “He’s such a complete player that it’s hard to single out one aspect of his game; he does them all. Balance to always be in a good position, and surprise to score the 3-0 goal.”
Clarin echoed this sentiment with another 7/10 rating, focusing on his effectiveness: “Perhaps the least involved of the midfielders, but an important one. He scored another goal. In the first half, the team developed to the rhythm of his short passes.”
However, both Ole and Bola VIP were more lavish in their praise, awarding Mac Allister 9/10 and 8.5/10 respectively. Ole wrote: “A tremendous run into space to connect with Enzo’s assist and score Argentina’s third goal, beating the goalkeeper.”
