Argentina

Lore & Background

The modern era has seen a continuation of this greatness through Lionel Messi, whose journey culminated in Qatar 2022. After decades of near-misses, including heartbreaking finals in 1990 and 2014 where Maradona's successor and other stars fell just short, the team finally achieved immortality again under manager Lionel Scaloni. This latest triumph solidified Argentina's status as a perennial powerhouse, bridging the gap between the glory days of the past and a new generation of champions.

Reader's Guide

The most significant honour for Argentina is the FIFA World Cup title, won three times. The first victory came in 1978 on home soil, where they defeated the Netherlands in a tense final to claim their maiden crown. This triumph established them as a major force in international football. The second title was secured in 1986 under the leadership of Diego Maradona.

This campaign is legendary for its attacking prowess and Maradona's individual brilliance, including the famous 'Goal of the Century' against England. Argentina defeated West Germany in the final to cement their status as world champions. After a long drought marked by runner-up finishes in 1930, 1990, and 2014, Argentina won their third title in 2022 in Qatar. Led by Lionel Messi, who finally achieved his ultimate dream, the team defeated France in a dramatic final that included penalties. This victory completed a historic treble of major trophies for the nation.

Did You Know?

• Argentina is one of only four nations to win three FIFA World Cup titles, alongside Brazil, Germany, and Italy.
• Diego Maradona remains the only player in history to score two goals against England in a single World Cup match (1986).
• Lionel Messi became the first player to reach 10 goals in World Cup tournaments for Argentina, surpassing Gabriel Batistuta's previous record.
• Argentina has finished as runner-up in three different decades: the 1930s, 1990s, and 2010s.