Football, often regarded as a complex game of intricate strategies, can, at its core, be surprisingly simple. Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, exemplifies this simplicity, making use of uncomplicated yet effective combinations that consistently lead to success.

In their Copa America opening match against Canada, Argentina's two goals came as a result of brilliant, yet simple, two-player interactions. These plays showed that at the heart of effective football, the simplest ideas often prove the most successful.

The concept of "moves in twos" has long been discussed among football coaches. It refers to the way players can work together in pairs to break down defensive lines, often with minimal effort. Messi, with his sharp vision and precise passing, is the ideal player to execute such moves.

Argentina's ability to turn these two-player combinations into scoring opportunities makes them a formidable force on the pitch. The use of diagonal balls and well-timed runs, whether straight or diagonal, is a prime example of how Argentina keeps the game simple yet effective.

One key example of this simplicity was evident in Argentina's second goal against Canada. Canada initially set up in a compact defensive shape, forcing Argentina to press forward. However, as the match progressed, Canada shifted to a more aggressive, high-pressing strategy, which played into Argentina's hands.

A slightly misplaced pass from Cristian Romero to Nicolas Otamendi allowed Canada's Jacob Shaffelburg to chase hard, but in doing so, it left Lisandro Martinez free. Otamendi made a quick recovery with a clever ball over Shaffelburg's head, finding Martinez, who then passed the ball forward to Giovani Lo Celso. A couple of quick passes later, Argentina had scored, taking full advantage of the space Canada had left behind.

This particular move was not about the speed or complexity of the play, but rather about exploiting small gaps and making quick decisions. Messi, always aware of the unfolding situation, remained calm, watching as defenders retreated. He was not running but instead observing the pattern of play, understanding exactly where the space would open up for him. His ability to read the game and make the right decisions in such moments is a testament to his footballing genius.

Another memorable moment from the match was Argentina's first goal, which followed a similarly simple yet effective pattern. Messi's awareness of the space around him allowed him to receive the ball unchallenged. From there, he executed a perfect pass to Alexis Mac Allister, who then set up Julian Alvarez for the goal. This sequence, built on mutual understanding between the players, highlighted the fluidity of Argentina's attacking play.

Messi's ability to make quick, smart decisions has long been a hallmark of his playing style. In many of Argentina's recent matches, including a pre-Copa America warm-up against Guatemala, Messi demonstrated this skill through clever one-twos that dismantled entire defenses. This understanding between teammates is not just a product of natural talent but also of years of practice, where the simplicity of the play is ingrained into their collective style.

Argentina's approach to football is a reminder that sometimes the simplest strategies are the most effective. As Johan Cruyff once said, "Playing football is very simple. Playing simple football is the hardest thing there is." Argentina's success on the field proves this to be true, as their straightforward but highly effective tactics continue to outwit opponents.