Argentina midfielder Ángel De Paul highlighted Messi's importance to the squad following Argentina's 3:0 Group J victory over Algeria on 17 June. 'Argentina is here to compete and leave on the final day of the World Cup,' De Paul said, emphasizing the team's collective ambition throughout the tournament.
'Having Messi is an advantage. He is not fixated on individual records,' De Paul noted in his post-match assessment. The midfielder's comments underscored Messi's role as a team leader despite the numerous personal milestones he continues to achieve.
De Paul's perspective reflects Argentina's squad cohesion as the team prepares for their next Group J fixture against Austria on 22 June. The opening victory sets a positive tone for Argentina's pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.