Argentina media hails 'dazzling' Alexis Mac Allister on record-breaking night for Lionel Messi
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Liverpool.com or go back to LFC Live.
Alexis Mac Allister put a difficult season at Liverpool behind him as he helped Argentina to qualify for the knockout stages of the World Cup on another record-breaking night for Lionel MessiAlexis Mac Allister celebrates with Lionel Messi during Argentina's win over Austria(Image: Getty Images)Alexis Mac Allister’s latest performance at the World Cup has been hailed by the media in Argentina, with the Liverpool midfielder producing a “dazzling” display against Austria.The defending champions secured their place in the knockout stages with a 2-0 win on Monday on what proved to be another phenomenal day for Lionel Messi, who now holds the record for the most goals in World Cup history.Mac Allister was once again handed a start, and although it wasn’t the most eye-catching of displays - especially compared to his record-breaking teammate - he has earned plenty of praise for his performance in midfield.Back at home in Argentina, TycSports awarded him a seven out of 10 in their ratings, explaining: "A good match, this time playing as a central midfielder, more focused on a fixed position than rotating between attacking and defensive duties."Argentina needed him there today, and Colo responded very well, especially in his understanding with Enzo [Fernandes]. It's also important to understand that some flashes of brilliance can go unnoticed when the required roles aren't those that offer the most dazzling performances."Only Messi (9 out of 10) and Lisandro Martinez (8 out of 10) received better ratings than Mac Allister, which will come as an encouraging sign ahead of his return to Liverpool this summer, especially after a difficult 2025/26 season.Alexis Mac Allister celebrates with his Argentina teammates(Image: Getty Images)Elsewhere, GOAL also awarded Mac Allister a seven, although it was slightly more critical of his performance, saying: “Stationed at the base of the Argentine midfield, Mac Allister did a good job protecting his back four and moving the ball forward, even if he did make a couple of rash challenges.”And Sports Illustrated awarded him a 7.4 rating, while noting the difference after the criticism he received while playing for the Reds: “Seems reinvigorated after a tough season at Liverpool.
The midfielder ended the game was a pass accuracy of 94% and five of eight ground duels won.”Mac Allister’s performance was also hailed by Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni, who has relied on the Liverpool star heavily throughout his reign.Get Liverpool's new 2026/27 home kitThis article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn moreLiverpool FC have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27, inspired by iconic adidas strip worn during the club's 1989/90 title-winning campaign.“Alexis gives us a central midfield role, he’s in good physical condition.
He contributes a lot and we’re happy,” Scaloni said.Argentina faces Jordan in its final group game at the weekend, with its opponent having already been eliminated after falling to defeat against Algeria. Just a point would assure the defending world champions of top spot in their group, which could have a significant bearing on who they face in the last-32.With Argentina safely through, Scaloni has hinted the likes of Mac Allister and Messi could be afforded a rest in that final group game.Speaking before Algeria’s win over Jordan, he said: "We'll see the result tonight and, if the situation allows, I want to give playing time to as many players as possible.”