Argentina sizzle against World Champion Spain | Thebigtip

Argentina showcased a footballing exhibition against Spain, crushing the 2010 World Cup champions 4-1 in an international friendly in Buenos Aires.

Under new manager Sergio Batista, Argentina stars Lionel Messi, Gonzalo Higuain, Sergio Aguero and Carlos Tevez each found themselves on the scoresheet, and shone in unison for the first time in many moons - something that sadly did not occur in South Africa earlier this year.

Following on from their 4-0 shellacking against Germany in the World Cup quarter-finals, Argentina’s victory against Spain is a step in the right direction for a side which has suffered immensely from player selection issues.

Inter Milan figures Javier Zanetti and Esteban Cambiasso both missed the trip to South Africa. Against Spain, the both of them showed why they are two players Argentina cannot do without.

Zanetti tormented the Spanish defence, and was a vital link in allowing the likes of Messi, Tevez and Higuain to shine in attack.

At 37 years of age, Zanetti continues to be Argentina’s best backline player. He is the only defender in the albiceleste squad capable of transforming himself into an attacking winger which can ably support the speed and skill of Messi and company.

As for Cambiasso, his combination with new FC Barcelona signing Javier Mascherano proved decisive in disrupting the flawless possession football the Spanish like to play.

One can only wonder what could have been had both Cambiasso and Zanetti played apart in the Germany quarter-final which has now been entrenched in Argentina folklore for all the wrong reasons.

And spare a thought for Messi himself, who has been the subject of immense criticism back in his homeland for failing to replicate his club form at international level.

The Barcelona ace was outstanding against Spain, scoring a sublime goal while playing the football more reminiscent of his performances for the La Liga champions.

Whilst the past cannot be changed, new coach Batista has certainly wasted no time building for Brazil 2014.

Having already succeeded with Argentina during his time as a youth coach, Batista has the potential to become the manager capable of garnering the two time world champions some overdue silverware.

Argentina’s first opportunity to fill their trophy cabinet will be at next year’s Copa America - which is the South American equivalent to the Euro Championships.

If Batista continues to pick the right squad, there is no doubt Argentina can emerge victorious in the Copa America and ultimately lay a strong platform for World Cup success in four years time.