There are very few countries who have had such a profound impact on the game of soccer as Argentina. Since their inaugural World Cup campaign in 1930, “La Albiceleste” has clinched three World Cup titles whilst making the finals on six occasions. Their most recent triumph came in 2022, when they secured victory over France in a thrilling final that culminated in a dramatic penalty shootout. The Argentines have also been a dominating force in South America, winning the Copa América fifteen times, a feat matched only by Uruguay. Furthermore, no discussion of Argentina’s impact on soccer would be complete without mentioning both Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Both players are absolute legends of the game, each making their own claim as the greatest player of all time. With both players having led Argentina to a World Cup victory, they are seen as the embodiment of the sport within the country, a status which puts them on par with the divine.
The defending world champions will be entering the 2024 Copa América as the top ranked nation by FIFA, boasting a squad both stacked with young talent and anchored with elite veterans. Emiliano Martinez, winner of the 2022 World Cup Golden Glove, will continue to protect Argentina’s net with the characteristic zeal and passion that made him a fan-favorite in Qatar. Veteran Nicholas Otamedi will lead the squad's defense, with explosive attackers Lautaro Martínez and Juilián Álverez causing nightmares on the attack. Martínez, in particular, has been in tremendous form recently, currently leading all goalscorers in the Serie-A. Of course Lionel Messi will be the focal point of the Argentinian side, as his unparalleled skill on the ball and feel for the game make players around him better. Although currently sidelined with an injury, Messi will captain the side in what will most definitely be his last Copa Ameríca campaign. As Argentina’s all time leader in caps and goals, all eyes will be on Messi as fans worldwide will tune in one-last time to witness his generation defining greatness.
Managing “La Albiceleste” will be former Argentinian defender Lionel Scaloni, whose appointment in 2018 was of much scrutiny. Scaloni ,however, has silenced all critics, winning every major tournament the Argentines have played in under his command. While it remains to be seen whether Scaloni’s success can be replicated without Messi, there is no reason to doubt his tactics heading into the 2024 Copa. If Messi can regain his fitness, there is no reason why Argentina should not be the favorites to hoist the trophy. While advancing from a group with Chile, Peru, and Canada will require focus in all aspects of the game, Argentina possess both the technical prowess and experience to top the group. Additionally, Argentina’s talent makes them very well-equipped to surge through the knockout rounds and into a final, even against potential powerhouse opponents such as Brazil and Uruguay. Betting against an Argentine side with Messi is an ill-fated idea.
Check out Highlights from the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final