Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final has reignited debate over Angel Di Maria's absence from the tournament. The winger retired from international football two years prior, turning down pleas from teammates and coaching staff to return for one final appearance. Ferran Torres's goal in the 106th minute of extra time sealed a 1-0 defeat that left Argentina without their veteran winger on the biggest stage.
The Case for Di Maria's Impact
Statistics paint a stark picture of Argentina's attacking performance against Spain. Across 90 minutes of regulation play, the team failed to register a single shot on target. By the final whistle, Argentina managed only two attempts—both wayward—while Spain unleashed 20 shots, with 12 finding the target. Possession favoured Spain 65% to 35%, a damning indictment of Argentina's creative output in a World Cup final.
This offensive drought stands as Argentina's worst attacking display in a World Cup final during the Lionel Messi era, surpassing even the 2014 loss to Germany in which Di Maria missed the match entirely due to a muscle tear sustained against Belgium. The correlation between Di Maria's absence and Argentina's struggles in major finals has fuelled renewed discussion among analysts and supporters alike.
A Veteran's Final Decision
Months before the tournament kicked off, several Argentina players urged Di Maria to reverse his retirement and bolster their attacking options. Lionel Scaloni's staff even attempted to convince him to participate in a farewell exhibition. The veteran remained resolute in his decision. Scaloni later revealed the unsuccessful attempts, telling Spanish newspaper AS: "We asked him to come and say goodbye to his fans. He has gone, and there is no way to convince him. We tried, but his decision is final."
The coach acknowledged Di Maria's legacy, noting: "He retired as a winner, and as one of the best footballers in our history." Di Maria's international career was marked by decisive contributions in knockout stages, with his presence historically coinciding with Argentina's deepest tournament runs. His record in finals tells a complicated story:
- 2014 World Cup final: Missed due to injury against Belgium; Argentina lost to Germany
- 2015 Copa America final: Limped off injured; Argentina lost to Chile on penalties
- 2016 Centenary Copa America final: Played while unfit; Argentina suffered defeat
Emiliano Martínez's 11 saves during the Spain match underscored the relentless pressure Argentina's defence faced, yet without an outlet on the wing, Scaloni's side could generate little attacking rhythm. With Enzo Fernández sent off in the 90+3rd minute, Argentina's task became impossible. Whether Di Maria could have altered the outcome remains unknowable, but his absence leaves Argentina asking what might have been on football's grandest stage.
