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Argentina aims to defend World Cup as Crespo praises Messi's leadership

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 10:50 AM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Argentina aims to defend World Cup as Crespo praises Messi's leadership

Summary

Hernan Crespo expressed Argentina's determination to defend the World Cup during Lionel Messi's anticipated final tournament this summer in North America. Argentina seeks to become only the third nation to retain the title, building on their success in Qatar in 2022. Crespo emphasized the importance of players like Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister stepping up as new leaders, as the team adjusts to playing 'with or without' Messi. With the 38-year-old set to feature in a record-breaking sixth tournament, Crespo believes Argentina remains among the favorites alongside teams like Spain and France.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Argentina travels to North America for the World Cup this summer.
•Messi is expected to retire from international play after the tournament.
•Crespo calls for younger players to lead alongside Messi.
•Argentina seeks to become only the third team to defend the World Cup.

Latest Updates

10:50 AMYahoo Sports — “‘We want it to be his last dance’: Argentina chase history as Crespo says Messi can defend the World Cup

What they're saying

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Hernan Crespo has said Argentina are determined to defend the World Cup in Lionel Messi's 'last dance' on the world stage.Argentine travel to North America this summer aiming to become only the third ...
— Yahoo Sports

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