Argentina’s post-Messi transition tested by Colombia loss

Argentina began the post-Messi phase with a 4-0 friendly win over Bolivia, led by Nicolás Paz and captain Cristian Romero, but then lost 2-1 to Colombia in a significant qualifier. The defeat exposed reduced attacking threat without Messi and sharpened questions about Argentina’s chance creation, leadership and tactical adaptation; upcoming Burkina Faso and No. 10 succession coverage adds context but no definitive retirement confirmation.