Skuad Argentina Di Piala Dunia 2014: Profil Pemain

Argentina's squad for the 2014 World Cup was a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young talents, all aiming to bring the trophy back to South America. The team, coached by Alejandro Sabella, had a clear mission: to win their third World Cup title. Let's dive into the details of each player who was part of this memorable journey.

Goalkeepers

1. Sergio Romero

Sergio Romero was the undisputed number-one goalkeeper for Argentina during the 2014 World Cup. At the time, he was playing his club football for Monaco. Romero's performances throughout the tournament were crucial, especially in the penalty shootout against the Netherlands in the semi-finals. His shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area provided a sense of security for the Argentine defense. Romero's journey to becoming Argentina's first-choice keeper wasn't always straightforward, but his consistency and reliability made him a key figure in Sabella's squad. He showcased exceptional reflexes and decision-making, often making critical saves that kept Argentina in tight matches. Romero's presence in goal was a significant factor in Argentina's strong defensive record during the tournament. Beyond his technical skills, Romero's mental fortitude was also noteworthy, especially when facing high-pressure situations like penalty shootouts. His ability to remain calm and focused under pressure helped instill confidence in his teammates and proved invaluable in Argentina's quest for World Cup glory.

12. Agustín Orión

Agustín Orión served as one of the backup goalkeepers for the Argentine squad. While he didn't feature in any games during the tournament, his experience and presence in the squad were valuable. Orión was a seasoned professional known for his shot-stopping abilities and leadership qualities. He provided support and competition for Sergio Romero, ensuring that the goalkeeping position was well covered. Orión's role was primarily to offer a reliable alternative in case of injury or suspension to the first-choice keeper. His inclusion in the squad reflected the importance of having experienced players who could contribute both on and off the field. Orión's career included notable stints with clubs in Argentina, where he consistently demonstrated his skills and professionalism. Although he didn't get the chance to play in the World Cup, his contribution to the team's preparation and morale was certainly appreciated. His presence in the dressing room was a positive influence, helping to maintain a competitive and supportive environment among the goalkeepers.

21. Mariano Andújar

Mariano Andújar was the third goalkeeper in the squad. Like Orión, Andújar didn't play any minutes during the World Cup, but he was an important part of the team's dynamics. Andújar's experience in European football added depth to the goalkeeping options. His role was to provide support and be ready if needed. The inclusion of three goalkeepers is standard practice for international tournaments, ensuring that the team is prepared for any eventuality. Andújar's professionalism and commitment to the team were crucial, even though he didn't see any game time. His presence in training sessions and team meetings contributed to the overall preparedness of the squad. Andújar had a solid club career, which made him a reliable option for the national team. He understood his role within the squad and fulfilled it with dedication. While fans may not remember the third-choice goalkeeper as vividly as the starters, their contribution to the team's success behind the scenes is undeniable.

Defenders

2. Ezequiel Garay

Ezequiel Garay was a key central defender for Argentina in the 2014 World Cup. Playing his club football for Benfica at the time, Garay formed a strong partnership with other defenders, providing stability and strength to the Argentine backline. Garay's aerial ability, tackling, and positioning were vital in thwarting opposition attacks. His performances throughout the tournament were consistently solid, making him one of the standout defenders in the squad. Garay's experience playing in Europe helped him adapt to different styles of play, making him a versatile and reliable defender. His presence in the team brought a sense of calm and assurance to the defense, allowing Argentina to maintain a strong defensive structure. Garay's contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. His ability to read the game and anticipate threats made him a formidable opponent for any attacker.

3. Hugo Campagnaro

Hugo Campagnaro was another experienced defender in the Argentine squad. Known for his versatility, Campagnaro could play as a right-back or a center-back. While he didn't start every game, his experience and adaptability made him a valuable asset to the team. Campagnaro's defensive skills and tactical awareness were important in maintaining Argentina's defensive solidity. His ability to play in multiple positions provided Coach Sabella with flexibility in his lineup. Campagnaro's career included stints in both Italy and Argentina, giving him a wealth of experience at the highest levels of football. His presence in the squad was a positive influence, offering guidance and support to younger players. Campagnaro's contribution to the team was significant, even when he wasn't on the pitch. His understanding of the game and his willingness to play wherever needed made him a valuable member of the squad.

4. Pablo Zabaleta

Pablo Zabaleta was the first-choice right-back for Argentina during the 2014 World Cup. Playing for Manchester City at the time, Zabaleta was known for his tireless work rate, defensive solidity, and attacking contributions. Zabaleta's energy and commitment were evident in every game, making him a fan favorite. His ability to defend strongly and also contribute to the attack made him a vital part of the Argentine team. Zabaleta's experience in the English Premier League made him well-prepared for the challenges of international football. His leadership qualities and never-say-die attitude were crucial in Argentina's successful campaign. Zabaleta's performances were consistently excellent, earning him praise from fans and pundits alike. His contributions on both ends of the pitch were essential in Argentina's journey to the final.

15. Martín Demichelis

Martín Demichelis brought a wealth of experience to the Argentine defense. Playing for Manchester City at the time, Demichelis was known for his aerial ability and tackling skills. His partnership with Garay in central defense was crucial in providing stability to the Argentine backline. Demichelis' experience playing in Europe made him a reliable and composed defender. His leadership qualities were also important in guiding the team through tough matches. Demichelis' performances were solid, and his presence in the team provided a sense of calm and assurance. His contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions made him a valuable asset to the team.

16. Marcos Rojo

Marcos Rojo was the starting left-back for Argentina in the 2014 World Cup. Playing his club football for Sporting Lisbon at the time, Rojo impressed with his defensive skills and ability to contribute to the attack. Rojo's performances were one of the highlights of the tournament for Argentina. His energy, tackling, and crossing ability made him a threat on the left flank. Rojo's versatility also allowed him to play as a center-back if needed, adding to his value to the team. His contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. Rojo's performances earned him a move to Manchester United after the World Cup. His impact on the Argentine team was significant, and he quickly became a fan favorite.

17. Federico Fernández

Federico Fernández was another solid defender in the Argentine squad. Playing his club football for Napoli at the time, Fernández provided depth and experience to the defense. While he didn't start every game, his presence in the squad was valuable. Fernández's defensive skills and tactical awareness were important in maintaining Argentina's defensive solidity. His ability to play in multiple positions made him a versatile option for Coach Sabella. Fernández's career included stints in both Italy and Spain, giving him a wealth of experience at the highest levels of football. His contribution to the team was significant, even when he wasn't on the pitch. His understanding of the game and his willingness to play wherever needed made him a valuable member of the squad.

23. José María Basanta

José María Basanta was a late addition to the Argentine squad, replacing the injured Lisandro López. Basanta provided additional defensive cover and experience. While he didn't play a significant role in the tournament, his presence in the squad was appreciated. Basanta's defensive skills and tactical awareness were important in maintaining Argentina's defensive solidity. His inclusion in the squad reflected the importance of having experienced players who could contribute both on and off the field. Basanta's career included notable stints with clubs in Mexico and Argentina, where he consistently demonstrated his skills and professionalism. Although he didn't get the chance to play extensively in the World Cup, his contribution to the team's preparation and morale was certainly appreciated.

Midfielders

5. Fernando Gago

Fernando Gago was an experienced midfielder who played a crucial role in Argentina's midfield. Known for his passing accuracy and ability to control the tempo of the game, Gago provided stability and creativity to the team. Gago's vision and distribution skills were vital in linking the defense and attack. His ability to read the game and make intelligent passes made him a key player in the Argentine midfield. Gago's experience playing in Europe with clubs like Real Madrid and Roma made him well-prepared for the challenges of international football. His presence in the team brought a sense of calm and assurance to the midfield, allowing Argentina to maintain possession and dictate the flow of the game. Gago's contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. His ability to control the midfield and create scoring opportunities made him a valuable asset to the team.

6. Lucas Biglia

Lucas Biglia was another important midfielder in the Argentine squad. Playing his club football for Lazio at the time, Biglia was known for his defensive work rate and ability to win back possession. Biglia's tackling and interceptions were vital in protecting the Argentine defense. His energy and commitment made him a valuable asset to the team. Biglia's experience playing in Italy made him well-prepared for the challenges of international football. His contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. Biglia's ability to win back possession and break up opposition attacks made him a key player in the Argentine midfield.

7. Ángel Di María

Ángel Di María was one of the key attacking midfielders for Argentina in the 2014 World Cup. Playing for Real Madrid at the time, Di María was known for his dribbling skills, pace, and ability to score goals. Di María's performances were crucial in Argentina's journey to the final. His ability to create scoring opportunities and take on defenders made him a constant threat to the opposition. Di María's injury in the quarter-final against Belgium was a major blow to Argentina's chances. His absence was sorely felt in the semi-final and final. Di María's contributions were essential in Argentina's success in the tournament. His ability to create and score goals made him one of the most important players in the squad.

8. Enzo Pérez

Enzo Pérez was a versatile midfielder who provided energy and work rate to the Argentine team. Playing his club football for Benfica at the time, Pérez was known for his tackling, passing, and ability to contribute to the attack. Pérez's performances were solid, and his versatility made him a valuable asset to the team. His ability to play in multiple positions allowed Coach Sabella to use him in different roles. Pérez's energy and commitment were evident in every game, making him a fan favorite. His contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. Pérez's ability to win back possession and contribute to the attack made him a valuable member of the squad.

11. Maxi Rodríguez

Maxi Rodríguez was an experienced midfielder who brought a wealth of experience to the Argentine squad. While he was not always a starter, his presence in the team was valuable. Rodríguez' experience and ability to score crucial goals made him a valuable asset to the team. His most memorable moment was his winning penalty in the semi-final shootout against the Netherlands. Rodríguez's experience playing in Europe and South America made him well-prepared for the challenges of international football. His contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. Rodríguez's ability to score goals and provide leadership made him a respected member of the squad.

13. Augusto Fernández

Augusto Fernández was a midfielder who provided depth and versatility to the Argentine squad. While he didn't play a significant role in the tournament, his presence in the squad was appreciated. Fernández' work rate and tactical awareness were important in maintaining Argentina's midfield solidity. His inclusion in the squad reflected the importance of having players who could contribute in different roles. Fernández's career included stints in both Europe and South America, giving him a wealth of experience. His contribution to the team was significant, even when he wasn't on the pitch. His understanding of the game and his willingness to play wherever needed made him a valuable member of the squad.

14. Javier Mascherano

Javier Mascherano was the heart and soul of the Argentine team. Playing as a defensive midfielder, Mascherano was known for his tackling, interceptions, and leadership qualities. Mascherano's performances were exceptional, and he was arguably Argentina's best player in the tournament. His commitment, determination, and never-say-die attitude inspired his teammates. Mascherano's crucial tackle on Arjen Robben in the semi-final is one of the most memorable moments of the tournament. Mascherano's leadership and defensive skills were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. His presence on the pitch provided a sense of security and confidence to the team. His contributions were invaluable, and he was a true warrior for Argentina.

Forwards

9. Gonzalo Higuaín

Gonzalo Higuaín was the main striker for Argentina in the 2014 World Cup. Playing his club football for Napoli at the time, Higuaín was known for his goal-scoring ability and work rate. Higuaín scored the winning goal in the quarter-final against Belgium. However, he also missed several crucial chances in the final against Germany. Higuaín's performances were a mix of highs and lows. His goal-scoring ability was crucial in Argentina's journey to the final, but his missed chances were costly in the final itself. Higuaín's contributions were important, but he will always be remembered for the chances he missed in the final.

10. Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi was the captain and talisman of the Argentine team. Playing for Barcelona at the time, Messi was widely regarded as the best player in the world. Messi scored four goals in the group stage, leading Argentina to the top of their group. He was also named the player of the tournament. However, Messi's performances in the knockout stages were not as impactful as in the group stage. He struggled to create scoring opportunities and was often marked tightly by the opposition. Messi's contributions were essential in Argentina's journey to the final. His presence on the pitch created a sense of hope and expectation. While he didn't score in the knockout stages, his leadership and ability to attract defenders were crucial in Argentina's success.

20. Sergio Agüero

Sergio Agüero was another key forward in the Argentine squad. Playing for Manchester City at the time, Agüero was known for his goal-scoring ability and pace. However, Agüero was not fully fit during the tournament due to injuries. Agüero's performances were limited by his fitness issues. He struggled to make an impact in the knockout stages. Agüero's contributions were important, but his fitness issues prevented him from playing at his best. His goal-scoring ability was missed in the crucial stages of the tournament.

22. Ezequiel Lavezzi

Ezequiel Lavezzi was a versatile forward who provided energy and work rate to the Argentine team. Playing for Paris Saint-Germain at the time, Lavezzi was known for his dribbling skills and ability to create scoring opportunities. Lavezzi's performances were solid, and his versatility made him a valuable asset to the team. He started the final against Germany but was substituted at halftime. Lavezzi's contributions were important, and his energy and commitment were appreciated by the fans. His ability to create scoring opportunities and take on defenders made him a valuable member of the squad.

Conclusion

The Argentine squad for the 2014 World Cup was a talented and experienced group of players who came agonizingly close to winning the trophy. Led by Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano, the team showcased a strong defense and a creative attack. While they ultimately fell short in the final against Germany, their journey to the final was a memorable one for Argentine football fans.