Can Barcelona make an “Argentina 2022 case” in the Champions League?

Barcelona’s start to the 2024/25 season has been nothing short of spectacular. With five consecutive La Liga wins, the team looked unstoppable, playing with a cohesion and attacking flair that had fans believing in a dominant season.

However, their recent 2-1 loss to AS Monaco in the Champions League group stage served as a sudden and unexpected stumble.

Are Barcelona mirroring Argentina?

Interestingly, Barcelona’s early season results mirror Argentina’s 2022 FIFA World Cup journey.

Heading into the tournament, Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina were riding high on a long unbeaten run, famed for their defensive organization and tactical balance.

Lionel Messi’s Argentina lost their first game of the 2022 FIFA World Cup (Photo by Matthias Hangst/Getty Images)

Then came the shock defeat against Saudi Arabia, also by 2-1, in their first group-stage game. Despite that setback, Argentina rallied, found their rhythm, and ultimately lifted the World Cup trophy.

Can Barcelona repeat the feat?

Barcelona fans will be asking the same question now: can the club follow Argentina’s path?

One loss, even in the Champions League, doesn’t determine a season, especially in the new format. Much like Argentina, Barcelona have the depth and talent to regroup and go the distance.

With Hansi Flick at the helm, lessons can be learned from this early defeat, just as Scaloni adapted his team after their loss.

Not to mention, the Catalans should have key players return from injury by the time they take on Young Boys on Oct 1, in their second Champions League game of the season.