Argentina's 2014 World Cup Final Lineup: A Look Back

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 53 views

Ah, the 2014 World Cup Final! Memories flood back, don't they? For Argentinian fans, it’s a mix of pride, heartache, and what-ifs. Let's dive deep into the Argentina formation final mundial 2014, reliving the players, the strategy, and the emotions of that unforgettable match against Germany.

The Starting Eleven: Argentina's Formation

When we talk about the Argentina formation final mundial 2014, we’re essentially dissecting Alejandro Sabella's tactical choices. He aimed for a balanced approach, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair. Here's a breakdown of the starting eleven that faced Germany at the Maracanã:

Sergio Romero (Goalkeeper): Romero, often debated among fans, was the undisputed number one during that World Cup. His penalty-saving heroics in the semi-final against the Netherlands cemented his place in Argentinian football folklore. Throughout the tournament, Romero displayed a level of composure that instilled confidence in the defense. His shot-stopping ability was crucial in navigating through tough matches, and his presence in goal was a cornerstone of Argentina's journey to the final. Despite facing criticism at times, Romero's performance in the 2014 World Cup remains a significant chapter in his career, showcasing his talent on the world's biggest stage.
Pablo Zabaleta (Right-Back): A tireless worker, Zabaleta brought grit and experience to the defense. His overlapping runs and tenacious defending were vital on the right flank. Zabaleta's commitment to both attack and defense made him an indispensable part of the team. He consistently tracked back to thwart opposition wingers and provided an outlet for Argentina's attacks with his forward surges. His leadership qualities were also evident, as he often marshaled the defense and motivated his teammates. Zabaleta's performance throughout the tournament was a testament to his professionalism and dedication to the Argentinian cause.
Martin Demichelis (Center-Back): Demichelis provided aerial presence and experience in the heart of the defense. While sometimes prone to errors, his partnership with Garay was crucial in navigating through tough matches. Demichelis's ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was essential in neutralizing opposition attacks. His physical presence in the penalty area made it difficult for opposing strikers to find space, and his experience helped to organize the defensive line. Despite facing criticism at times for his lack of pace, Demichelis's contribution to Argentina's defensive stability cannot be overlooked.
Ezequiel Garay (Center-Back): Garay was the rock in Argentina's defense, providing calmness and composure. His positioning and tackling were impeccable throughout the tournament. Garay's partnership with Demichelis formed a solid barrier that frustrated many attacking lineups. His ability to win aerial duels and make crucial clearances was vital in protecting Argentina's goal. Garay's consistent performance throughout the tournament solidified his reputation as one of Argentina's most reliable defenders.
Marcos Rojo (Left-Back): Rojo's energetic performances and willingness to attack made him a key outlet on the left. His defensive capabilities improved throughout the tournament. Rojo's ability to cover ground quickly and deliver accurate crosses made him a valuable asset in both defense and attack. His tenacity in tackling and willingness to track back helped to nullify opposition threats on the left flank. Rojo's performance in the 2014 World Cup showcased his versatility and potential as a modern full-back.
Javier Mascherano (Defensive Midfielder): El Jefecito (The Little Chief) was the heart and soul of the team. His relentless tackling, interceptions, and leadership were inspirational. Mascherano's unwavering commitment to the team and his ability to read the game made him an indispensable player in midfield. His crucial tackles and interceptions often broke up opposition attacks and provided a platform for Argentina to launch their own offensives. Mascherano's leadership on and off the field inspired his teammates and made him a true icon of Argentinian football.
Lucas Biglia (Midfielder): Biglia provided stability and composure in midfield. His passing range and tactical awareness were essential in controlling the game's tempo. Biglia's ability to distribute the ball effectively and maintain possession was crucial in Argentina's midfield dominance. His tactical awareness allowed him to anticipate opposition movements and make timely interceptions. Biglia's calm and composed presence in midfield provided a sense of stability to the team.
Enzo Pérez (Midfielder): Brought into the starting lineup after Ángel Di María's injury, Pérez offered energy and work rate in midfield. His pressing and tackling were important in disrupting Germany's rhythm. Perez's relentless energy and commitment to winning the ball back made him a valuable asset in midfield. His ability to press high up the pitch and disrupt opposition passing lanes helped to regain possession for Argentina. Perez's work rate and determination were crucial in maintaining Argentina's intensity throughout the match.
Lionel Messi (Forward): Arguably the greatest player of all time, Messi was the focal point of Argentina's attack. His dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring threat were always a danger to the opposition. Messi's ability to create chances out of nothing and his mesmerizing dribbling skills made him a constant threat to the German defense. His vision and passing range allowed him to unlock opposition defenses and create opportunities for his teammates. Despite not scoring in the final, Messi's presence on the field commanded respect and attention from the German players.
Gonzalo Higuaín (Forward): Higuaín led the line, offering a physical presence and goal-scoring threat. While he missed a crucial chance in the final, his contributions throughout the tournament were significant. Higuain's ability to hold up the ball and bring others into play made him a valuable focal point in Argentina's attack. His movement off the ball created space for Messi and other attacking players. Despite missing a clear-cut chance in the final, Higuain's contributions throughout the tournament were essential in Argentina's journey to the final.
Ezequiel Lavezzi (Forward): Lavezzi's work rate and direct running caused problems for the German defense in the first half. His energy and commitment were crucial in pressing the opposition. Lavezzi's willingness to run at defenders and his ability to deliver crosses made him a valuable asset in Argentina's attack. His energy and commitment to pressing the opposition helped to win back possession and create scoring opportunities. Lavezzi's performance in the first half of the final showcased his value as a hardworking and dynamic forward.

The Tactical Approach

Sabella set up the team in a 4-4-2 formation, which shifted to a 4-5-1 when defending. The primary aim was to contain Germany's attacking threat while relying on Messi's brilliance to create scoring opportunities. The Argentina formation final mundial 2014 emphasized defensive discipline and quick transitions.

The strategy revolved around:

Defensive Solidity: Mascherano and Biglia shielded the defense, breaking up plays and protecting the back four.
Midfield Battles: Pérez's energy was key to winning midfield battles and disrupting Germany's passing game.
Messi Magic: The team looked to Messi to produce moments of brilliance, either through dribbling, passing, or shooting.
Counter-Attacks: Argentina aimed to exploit any defensive lapses by Germany, using quick transitions to launch counter-attacks.

Key Moments and Turning Points

The final was a tense and closely contested affair. Here are some pivotal moments:

Higuaín's Missed Chance: In the first half, Higuaín had a golden opportunity to put Argentina ahead but scuffed his shot wide.
Messi's Near Miss: Messi had a chance in the second half but dragged his shot just past the post.
Götze's Goal: Mario Götze's extra-time winner broke Argentinian hearts, sealing the victory for Germany.

The Substitutions

Sabella made a few substitutions to try and change the game:

Sergio Agüero for Ezequiel Lavezzi: Agüero brought fresh legs and attacking impetus but couldn't find the breakthrough.
Rodrigo Palacio for Gonzalo Higuaín: Palacio replaced Higuaín but also missed a crucial chance in extra time.
Fernando Gago for Enzo Pérez: Gago added more experience to the midfield but couldn't prevent Germany from scoring.

The Aftermath and Legacy

The defeat was a bitter pill to swallow for Argentina. They had come so close to lifting the trophy but ultimately fell short. However, the Argentina formation final mundial 2014 and the team's overall performance earned them respect and admiration. The players gave their all, and the memories of that World Cup will forever be etched in Argentinian football history. The passion and determination displayed by the team resonated with fans worldwide.

Reflections on the Team

Looking back, the team was a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Players like Mascherano, Demichelis, and Zabaleta provided leadership, while Messi, Rojo, and Pérez brought energy and flair. The tactical setup was pragmatic, focusing on defensive stability and exploiting Messi's genius. While they didn't win, the team's journey to the final was a testament to their spirit and unity.

What if? Speculating Alternate Outcomes

It's impossible not to wonder what might have been. What if Higuaín had scored? What if Messi's shot had gone in? These