Argentina suffered their worst performance at the 2026 World Cup after losing 1-3 to Switzerland on July 12. The team showed an exhausted midfield with no creativity, something unseen since the 2021 Copa América. The loss exposed how physical decline is taking its toll.

What happened in Kansas City?

The match against Switzerland revealed the weaknesses of a team used to dominating with pure play. The Argentine midfielders played too deep, unable to impose their style. Leandro Paredes left injured with a muscle strain, while Alexis Mac Allister scored but failed to maintain his level. Rodrigo de Paul, another key piece, was subbed off again after a special preparation for the World Cup.

The stadium conditions and dry pitches affected players like Paredes, a passing specialist. Switzerland pressed well and neutralized the Argentine midfield, a scenario unseen since the toughest matches in Qatar. Argentina isn’t built to chase the ball, and that showed in their worst performance of the month.

Why is the midfield the weak link?

Before the World Cup, Argentina’s midfield was considered the strongest in the tournament. With Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernández, Rodrigo de Paul, and Leandro Paredes, the team had creativity and balance guaranteed. But now it’s the zone with the worst performance.

The reasons go beyond physical fatigue. Defensive strategies in key matches forced deep retreats, harming players with good passing. Plus, accumulated wear in tight games —like the 120 minutes against Switzerland— pushed several to their limit. The question now is clear: trust the veterans or promote the youngsters?

What options does Scaloni have for Wednesday?

The coach has two paths. Stick with the core and tweak details, like rotating key players to avoid injuries. Or bet on young talents who shone in the previous cycle, such as Thiago Almada or Valentín Barco. The choice will define if the team recovers its identity or stays in crisis.

The next challenge comes on July 15 against England. Argentina needs to recover its energy in just three days. If it fails, the dream of a back-to-back World Cup could vanish.