Mixed Reviews in Routine Win

Liverpool’s No.10 received a 6/10 rating from TyC Sports as Lionel Messi and Lautaro Martínez delivered the goals that secured a straightforward win. For Mac Allister, this was a game defined not by errors but by absence. As Antonio Serpa noted for TyC Sports, “Somewhat absent in the first half, he distributed the ball well later on when Argentina had possession. A nice long ball into the box to Messi, who was quickly closed down.”

His touches were neat, his passing accurate, but the tempo rarely demanded more. Argentina’s control was never in doubt, and much of the contest unfolded at a leisurely pace. With victory secured, the focus shifted to the subtler stories within the squad, including a special family moment as Kevin Mac Allister made his senior debut, joining his brother on the pitch for the first time.

Central to Liverpool’s Evolving Core

Back on Merseyside, the context surrounding Alexis Mac Allister’s international form carries far greater significance. Reports this week confirmed that Liverpool have opened talks to extend his contract, along with fellow midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch. Lewis Steele of Mail Sport stated that discussions are “taking place” to secure the futures of the trio, a reflection of their importance to Arne Slot’s long-term plans.

For Slot, who led Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season, continuity in midfield is essential. Mac Allister, at 26, embodies the intelligent, disciplined control that underpins the new era at Anfield. His tactical maturity and positional awareness make him as valuable off the ball as on it, a trait often lost amid statistical comparisons.

Why Quiet Games Still Matter

Even when his name does not dominate the headlines, there remains purpose in Mac Allister’s understated presence. Matches like this highlight his unflappable temperament, a player who neither hides nor forces the issue. The rhythm of Argentina’s play still moves through him, even when he operates at a lower tempo.

For Liverpool, his ability to link defence and attack remains vital. Whether anchoring a double pivot or stepping higher to connect with the forwards, Mac Allister’s understanding of space continues to make him indispensable. Under Arne Slot’s guidance, those qualities will again be central as Liverpool begin their title defence and look to build on last season’s domestic success.

Looking Ahead

Argentina’s win over Angola will fade quickly from memory, yet for Mac Allister, it was another reminder of how consistency defines his career. He may not have shone, but neither did he falter. His calm assurance continues to shape both Liverpool and Argentina, and with contract talks progressing, his influence at Anfield is set to grow even further.