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

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.

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