the messi and argentina underperforming storyline is one of the most interesting things i have seen in sport 

argentina lost their first match and are currently down at ht 

what is going on? 

has been going on like this for the last number of years.
Very inconsistent NT and a governing body in kaos at times doesn't help as well - I feel for Messi, hence why a number of times he has made himself unavailable.
Pressure is all on him by the fans but his team mates don't give enough or not good enough.
They just can't click.
Last in the group atm but can still quali and I hope so for him.

He can't win matches by himself, such is the difference between him at club level & him at national team level.  

I think i have worked it out argentina have most of their talent in attack their midfield,defence and goalie are very average