Diego Simeone

The first Argentine to earn 100 caps: a warrior who led his nation through three World Cups and two continental titles.

Diego Pablo Simeone González, known universally as "Cholo," stands as one of Argentina's most decorated and recognizable figures in football history. Capped over 100 times for his country, he was the first Argentine to reach this milestone, a feat achieved during a match against Venezuela in March 2002. As a midfielder, Simeone represented Argentina at three FIFA World Cups (1994, 1998, and 2002) and four Copa América tournaments, securing victories in 1991 and 1993. His international resume also includes the 1992 FIFA Confederations Cup, the 1993 Artemio Franchi Cup, and a silver medal at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, where he served as an overage player.

Quick Facts

Full name: Diego Pablo Simeone González
Born: 28 April 1970
Birthplace: Buenos Aires, Argentina
Height: 1.77 m / 5 ft 10 in
Position: Midfielder
Current club: Atlético Madrid (manager)
Total caps: 515
Total goals: 84

Lore & Background

Simeone's international career was defined by dramatic moments and tactical grit. His journey began with his first cap in 1988, but true success arrived quickly with the 1991 Copa América title. In 1992, he scored the decisive goal in a 3–1 final victory over Saudi Arabia to win the FIFA Confederations Cup. A year later, during the Artemio Franchi Cup against Denmark, Simeone netted Argentina's third spot kick in a penalty shootout that followed a 1–1 draw, securing another trophy.

The 1996 Atlanta Olympics saw him as one of three overage players leading the U-23 squad to a silver medal, though he had previously missed out on qualification for the 1992 Games with the under-23 team. His World Cup campaigns were equally eventful; in 1994, he featured in midfield against Romania, contributing to Abel Balbo's goal before Argentina suffered a surprise elimination. Four years later, captaining the side at the 1998 World Cup, Simeone became central to one of football's most famous rivalries when England's David Beckham was sent off for kicking him after a foul.

Reader's Guide

For fans analyzing Simeone's time with Argentina, focus on his versatility and leadership. He was a two-way midfielder capable of winning balls and starting attacks, often deployed centrally but occasionally shifting to left-sided wing-back roles, as seen against England in 1998. His tenure spanned from 1988 to 2002, covering four World Cups and multiple continental triumphs. Key statistics include his 11 international goals, one of which was the winner against Saudi Arabia in 1992. He captained the team at the 1998 World Cup and led the squad to two Copa América titles (1991, 1993). While he missed the 1990 World Cup squad that finished second, his consistency was unmatched until being surpassed by players like Lionel Messi and Javier Zanetti. His style combined strength and stamina with tactical intelligence, earning him comparisons to legends like Falcão and Lothar Matthäus.

Did You Know?

In the 1998 World Cup round of 16 against England, Simeone admitted to simulating an injury from David Beckham's kick to get the English player sent off.
Simeone netted Argentina's third penalty during the shootout win over Denmark to claim the 1993 Artemio Franchi Cup.