u/Lumpy_Ad_9354

I've been following football since around 2014, and became a Messi fan around 2016. He has treated us all to wonderful moments, we have seen him claim numerous records, a lot of trophies, individual awards. He has won the world cup, UCL, club world cup, uefa super cup, many league titles, he has won everything major there is to win. We thought the 2022 world cup win was a crowning jewel, the ultimate Messianic moment, the Hollywood ending to who for us is the GOAT. But destiny had something else in mind.

I won't deny, I thought this world cup would be a conclusion for Messi, a more modest tournament for his standards compared to his spectacular international tournament performances in the past. I expected a few goals and assists. I never expected 6 goals in 3 group stage games. I didn't expect him to be in the running for the golden boot, golden ball. I didn't think Argentina would reach the final. But alas, all those things are happening. This tournament has been like an addition to the legacy, extra, ticking off boxes. A clutch comeback in the knockout stage? Done vs Egypt. A decisive performance against a big major nation? Done vs England. Directly contributing to every game of the tournament at least through a goal or assist? Done in each match.

No matter what happens vs Spain, we should all be blessed we got to watch this tournament from Messi. He is a major reason Argentina have made it this far, and thankfully players such as Enzo, Lautaro, and Alvarez have contributed in the knockouts to lessen the burden on him. My honest opinion is Spain are more likely to win due to the sheer quality of them as a team and due to their great performance vs France. Obviously I'd like to see Argentina have the 4th star on their crest on Sunday. Thank you Leo, there will never be another like you, our GOAT. Enjoy every moment that's left of his career, guys.

Having watched most of the knockout stage matches in full (including against England in full), i think that for sure Montiel should come in place of Molina, Molina's form looks a bit shaky atm to me and i feel he got outpaced easily by the English attackers and was a bit lost for the Gordon goal. Montiel will probably provide more defensive security. Medina vs Tagliafico is also a decision, Tagliafico has more experience obviously, but I feel Medina might be in better form and is younger. However Medina is recovering from injury, so Tagliafico might get the nod.

Another question is De Paul or Simeone to start. I liked Simeone against England, he played a Di Maria-esque role of providing width, and pressing, and provided a lot of energy. I did feel tho he was a little wasteful with posession. When De paul came on in the match, he provided a good cross for macallister and I think was more comfortable in possession. To be honest i personally would start Simeone against Spain, and as the game goes on in the 2nd half maybe sub him for De Paul but if De Paul starts i wont be surprised.

I think the rest of the lineup is good and won't be changed. Lautaro and Otamendi are probably best suited as super subs imo.