Lionel Messi’s Magic and Argentina’s Masterplan: Sandesh Jhingan Breaks Down World Champions’ Dominance | Exclusive

Los Angeles: As Argentina continue to reinforce their status as one of the strongest teams at the FIFA World Cup 2026, India international Sandesh Jhingan believes the reigning champions have found the perfect balance between tactical structure and the enduring brilliance of Lionel Messi.

In an exclusive interaction, Jhingan said Argentina's dominance cannot be attributed solely to Messi, despite the legendary forward's continued influence on the team. Instead, he pointed to a collective approach that has allowed the South American giants to remain among the most consistent sides in international football.

"Messi is obviously a game-changer and one of the greatest players the sport has ever seen, but what stands out about Argentina is how well the entire team functions around him," Jhingan observed.

According to the Indian defender, Argentina's success stems from a clearly defined tactical identity established under coach Lionel Scaloni. The system allows players to understand their roles while maximizing the strengths of the squad's biggest stars.

Jhingan highlighted Argentina's defensive organization as one of the key reasons behind their continued success. While much attention naturally falls on Messi and the team's attacking players, he noted that the world champions have built a foundation based on discipline, pressing and intelligent positioning.

"Every player knows exactly what is expected of him. They defend together, attack together and remain compact throughout the game," he said.

The Indian international also praised Argentina's midfield, describing it as the engine that drives the team. Players such as Rodrigo De Paul and Enzo Fernández provide energy, creativity and defensive cover, enabling Messi to operate in advanced areas where he can have the greatest impact.

Jhingan believes one of Argentina's greatest strengths is their ability to adapt to different opponents without abandoning their core philosophy. Whether facing possession-oriented teams or sides that prefer to defend deep, the reigning champions have consistently found ways to impose themselves on matches.

The defender also pointed to the team's mentality as a decisive factor. Since winning the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Argentina have carried themselves with the confidence of champions while maintaining the hunger to achieve more.

"Champions don't just win because they have talent. They win because they have belief, discipline and a winning mentality. Argentina have all of those qualities," Jhingan said.

Messi's role remains central to that equation. Even in the latter stages of his career, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to deliver moments of magic capable of deciding the biggest matches. Jhingan noted that Messi's presence not only influences games but also elevates the performance of those around him.

As the tournament progresses, Argentina remain among the leading contenders to lift the trophy once again. With Messi still producing on the grandest stage and a well-drilled squad executing Scaloni's vision, the defending champions have shown few signs of relinquishing their grip on world football.

For Jhingan, the formula is simple: extraordinary talent combined with a clear plan.

And as long as Argentina continue to marry Messi's genius with collective excellence, they will remain one of the most formidable teams in the competition.