"He's been the best for 20 years, he still pulls it off every single match.
You don't have to be an Argentine fan to admire him at age 38," Scaloni said.
The coach also addressed De Paul's performance, revealing that he demanded more intensity and focus during a first-half hydration break.
"When he left for Inter (Miami), we are not interested in the leagues," Scaloni said, emphasizing that national team selections prioritize individual physical growth and form over league placement.
"We care about the growth. He is playing at a very good level, his physicality is very good.
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When he plays with the people he knows, he plays well," Scaloni said.
De Paul responded by playing the full 90 minutes, securing the midfield after setting up the opening sequence against Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
"He is very decisive," Scaloni said, explaining that the entire team reacts when the midfielder loses focus on the pitch.
"When he relaxes, we all feel it. I asked him to give a little more.
I am happy because I never hesitated to have him play in the game," Scaloni said.
MLS Commissioner Highlights League's Global Reach
MLS commissioner Don Garber attended the match, highlighting that the tournament showcases global talent representing the American domestic league.
"MLS is a league that represents the rest of the world," Garber said.
Garber stated that having Miami teammates produce top-tier international performances actively promotes the growing profile of MLS.
"When I watch Argentina play, I might love the way that they play and love that they are world champions.
But, Leo Messi and Rodrigo De Paul play for an MLS team in Miami and they are representing our league," Garber said.
The victory leaves Algeria at the bottom of Group J following their opening defeat, while Argentina moves forward in its group campaign.
"We all know his mentality, and he doesn't let himself enjoy it much because he's focused on helping us, the team," De Paul said, describing the positive atmosphere that Messi's happiness brings to the entire Argentine locker room.
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"I think he's good, happy, and I think that's contagious in the group," De Paul said.
