With questions mounting, it's time for Scaloni to find answers for Argentina

The Argentine national football team, despite securing a victory, displayed concerning signs of physical weariness and a lack of fluid offensive play in their recent match against Cabo Verde. The team appeared sluggish, a stark contrast to their World Cup performance, struggling to generate momentum against a determined opponent.

Lionel Messi, however, continues to be the team's linchpin. Even when marked closely, his deep understanding of the game allows him to consistently find opportunities, as evidenced by his seventh goal in four matches. He also demonstrated adaptability by shifting to a wider position to engage in one-on-one situations, showcasing his enduring influence on the field.

Despite Messi's brilliance, the team's broader issues persist. Few attacking plays were effectively orchestrated or finished by players other than Messi. While individual contributions like Nico González's reading of the game, Almada's assist, and Lisandro Martínez's pass are noted, midfielders like Enzo Fernández, De Paul, and Alexis Mac Allister seem less impactful, and forwards Lautaro Martínez and Julián Álvarez struggle to recover possession effectively.

Coach Lionel Scaloni faces a critical juncture, needing to implement tactical adjustments and find new solutions to revitalize the squad. The team exhibited vulnerability, particularly in the second half, and struggled to maintain possession even after regaining the lead. The need for increased energy and strategic changes is evident as Argentina looks to navigate upcoming challenges.