According to the source, Argentina needed only thirty minutes to show that, even without Lionel Messi, the team can be more than competitive. The match against Bolivia in Córdoba began with Argentina controlling territory and possession but struggling to create clear chances for its forwards. The source reports that the team was “rondando el área sin poder conectar por bajo o por alto” until Exequiel Palacios found a breakthrough pass.
Palacios, described as one of the “mimados” of coach Lionel Scaloni throughout the cycle, delivered the assist that led to Martínez’s opening goal. The source explains that Palacios found Alexis Mac Allister, who did not touch the ball and left it for Martínez in an off‑side position. Because there was no VAR in Córdoba, the play stood. Martínez controlled a rebound, moved outward and finished with a low, crossing shot that the Bolivian goalkeeper Viscarra could not stop.
Shortly after, Nico Paz scored Argentina’s second goal. The source says Paz went into space and “empaló” the ball with a finish reminiscent of Lionel Messi’s trademark style. Both goals were credited to Palacios, who also assisted the first. The source notes that Palacios currently plays for Ipswich after spending many seasons in the Bundesliga, highlighting his continued influence despite limited minutes on the field.
The source emphasizes that Argentina’s plan, similar to the approach used in the 2026 World Cup, is to draw opponents out wide and then attack through the centre. This tactical pattern was evident in the build‑up to both goals, with Palacios operating as the linking midfielder. Overall, the performance demonstrated that the squad possesses several players capable of stepping up when Messi is absent, providing depth and flexibility for future matches.
Key facts
- Lautaro Martínez scored Argentina’s first goal against Bolivia in Córdoba.
- Nico Paz scored the second goal with a finish likened to Lionel Messi’s.
- Both goals were assisted by Exequiel Palacios.
- Palacios plays for Ipswich after many years in the Bundesliga.
- The match took place without Lionel Messi and without VAR in Córdoba.