The Argentine camp had been the subject of numerous stories and rumours ever since the disastrous 3-0 defeat by Croatia, with the team called “the worst ever” and Sampaoli begging fans for forgiveness. A change to a back four brought about a much-improved first-half display, and they led at the break through Messi’s expertly taken goal.
Victor Moses’ second-half penalty threatened to derail that improvement, but Rojo’s late strike earned Argentina passage into the last 16. “It was a difficult situation,” said Messi, who was pictured giving a team talk in the tunnel before the players came back out for the second half.
“It was a huge release and relief for all of us. It is a huge joy for everyone for the difficult days we lived after the last defeat. Luckily we achieved our objective.” Sampaoli was embraced by Messi at full-time and said suggestions the Barcelona forward – who briefly retired from international football in 2016 – is not committed to the national side are not true.
“Every time Lionel Messi plays he shows that he is a fantastic player, above everybody else, but he needs support from his team-mates,” said Sampaoli. “His human side is amazing. He cries and suffers, he is happy when Argentina win. It’s important he shares those feelings. Many people say Leo does not enjoy playing for Argentina, but I don’t agree.