Argentina put a score against New Zealand
Perhaps the most appropriate word to describe Argentina’s performance tonight is “wow”. In a game in which they already had guaranteed qualification, the Albiceleste played as if they were fighting for a place in the round of 16.
From the get-go, there was not only intensity in their offensive game, but also in the way they hunted in packs on defense. In fact, the Kiwis were barely able to possess the ball for more than a few seconds before it was stolen from them and they faced an immediate attack.
This, of course, brings us to the list of names that were instrumental in tonight’s win.. First of all, let’s start with Federico Redondo – son of Real Madrid legend Fernando Redondo – who was simply flawless in midfield. Without the fancy footwork of some of his classmates, the center put on a demonstration of soccer touch and movement as he orchestrated play after play from the middle of the park.
Then there was busy winger Brian Aguirre whose quality dribbles, cuts and crosses wreaked havoc all night. Fittingly, he was given the responsibility of taking the penalty that led to Argentina’s fourth.
Mention should also be made of Gino Infantino, who basically did the same from the opposite wing, as well as appearing on the central channel on numerous occasions. His shot to the far post for the second of the night was proof of this.
Last, but definitely not least, we have to talk about Luka Romero. Now, let’s be honest, we’ve all heard of players who have been called the “new Messi” before, but we’ve never seen one that actually looks and, more importantly, leads like him. However, that is exactly what Romero did that night, his energy, technique and touches were something to behold, as he offered an element to his team that no other player did. Then, there was his goal. If any other goal is voted goal of the tournament, it will surely have to be something that hasn’t been seen before. After evading all three of his markers at midfield, Romero ran out and then fired a rocket from at least 30 yards to bring the stadium to its feet. The truth is that the only blemish on Argentina’s performance was when Mascherano decided to replace the star in the second half. To be honest, we expect a little more from him.
As for New Zealand, what can we say? The Kiwis knew they were in for a tough time and to be fair we are relatively decent in the first 10 minutes but once Argentina got going the chasm in the class became apparent. In fact, the 673 passes that Argentina completed alongside their 194 were clearly a representation of that fact.As they look forward, they will now have to wait for favorable results elsewhere for a chance to advance as a third-place team. They can only wait. Argentina, for its part, will go to the round of 16 having announced to the rest of the teams that they will not play.
With that said, we wish you a good evening and thank you for joining us for what was a stunning game at the FIFA U-20 World Cup.
