The FIFA Technical Study Group released its first analysis of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with former Argentine international Zabaleta, one of its members, praising Messi's performance.
"I thoroughly enjoyed Messi's FIFA World Cup. He was the most important player: he got the ball in the final third and then worked his magic," said the former Argentine full-back. He praised several creative players in the tournament but reserved the starring role for his compatriot.
"Sometimes he walks, but not because he's tired."
Zabaleta discussed one of the most observed phenomena of the tournament: the professional longevity of top players. Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are both 39-40 years old, and Modrić still maintains a high level. The former Manchester City player stated that it is no longer uncommon for a player to play 37 to 38 matches per season.
"It wasn't as common before. Now they have everything to help them recover to their best condition," he said. "They have truly professional teams around them: rest, good nutrition, physiotherapists at home, extra training, specialized training at centers... Everything is to be ready for the next match. We will see more players reach this age in the future."
Speaking of Messi, Zabaleta offered a tactical interpretation that only those who have played alongside him would understand: "Sometimes Messi walks, but it's not because he's tired. He's looking for position, finding the best place to be."
Argentina vs. Cape Verde to be played in Miami: "They are favorites, but no one can be underestimated."
The member of the Technical Study Group also looked ahead to Argentina's Round of 16 match against Cape Verde in Miami. Zabaleta warned that it would not be an easy match, but he also clearly indicated which side the scales tipped towards.
"It will be a difficult match for Argentina once they arrive in Miami. I have analyzed Cape Verde's games, and they play very well: good players, and they have speed," he warned. "But Argentina are the favorites. You can't underestimate anyone, but if I just say Messi is playing well, that already indicates it will be Argentina's game."
Cape Verde, making surprises with their own mark
Zabaleta was also willing to acknowledge the opponent's value. In his opinion, Cape Verde reaching this round is one of the most inspiring stories of this FIFA World Cup.
"If Cape Verde has made it this far, it's because the coach has done an excellent job, and the team's work has been incredible. They have performed very well," he praised. "I hope they enjoy this FIFA World Cup."
Pressing after losing possession: the hallmark of Canada, USA, and Spain
According to the Technical Study Group's analysis, another major key point of the tournament is the immediate counter-press after losing possession. Zabaleta gave three examples.
"I've observed Canada and the United States: you can see it's ingrained in their DNA. Spain too, and this is related to their football philosophy," he explained. "After losing possession, they can quickly apply pressure. You can clearly see the players' reactions and the pressing after losing possession when the team works synergistically as a whole."
Cooling breaks as a tactical weapon
Zabaleta also spoke about cooling breaks and their impact on the flow of the game, a topic consistently followed by the Technical Study Group. The former full-back offered two contrasting interpretations based on the game's progression.
"In some cases, a team might be dominating before the break. If you need to win, or at least get a point, this break might disrupt your momentum. There are two perspectives here: for the dominant side, it could be counterproductive; but for the trailing side, it's an opportunity to turn things around," he said.
From a tactical standpoint, this break has a dual value: "It's to allow players to rest for the last 20 to 25 minutes, and it also allows the coach to adjust tactics, intervene in the game, and try to win."
The Technical Study Group also emphasized one final point: not all breaks are of equal importance. "The break in the second half is more crucial than in the first half. In the first half, it might just seem like a pause, but in the second half, its impact will be much greater."
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