Argentina Seeks Third World Cup Title in 2022 | Messi's Last Chance?

Argentina's World Cup History

As one of the most successful national teams in World Cup history, Argentina has long been a powerhouse in international soccer. With two World Cup titles, five appearances in the final, and 14 total appearances in the knockout stage, Argentina has consistently been one of the top contenders at the quadrennial tournament.

Argentina's first appearance at the World Cup came in 1930, when the tournament was held in neighboring Uruguay. While Argentina lost in the group stage that year, it marked the beginning of their strong World Cup tradition.

First World Cup Title in 1978

After solid showings in 1934, 1958, and 1966, Argentina finally broke through to win its first World Cup title in 1978. As the hosts of the tournament that year, Argentina rode a wave of home crowd support all the way to the final against the Netherlands. An extra time goal from Mario Kempes propelled Argentina to a 3-1 victory and their first World Cup trophy.

Kempes was the star of the tournament, scoring a tournament-best 6 goals to earn the Golden Boot. The 1978 World Cup title marked the apex of his illustrious career and cemented his legacy as a Argentine soccer legend.

Maradona Leads Argentina in 1986

Eight years later, Argentina once again reached the World Cup final, this time led by the legendary Diego Maradona. In the quarterfinals against England, Maradona scored two of the most famous goals in World Cup history - the "Hand of God" goal followed by a jaw-dropping solo dribble run.

Maradona was masterful throughout the tournament, leading Argentina past Belgium in the semifinals before defeating West Germany 3-2 in the final. Just as Kempes defined the 1978 championship team, Maradona put Argentina on his shoulders in 1986 en route to their second World Cup title.

Heartbreak in 1990

Hopes were high that Maradona could lead Argentina to another World Cup in 1990, but it was not to be. Argentina breezed through their group and beat rivals Brazil and Italy in the knockout stage to return to the final.

However, defending champion West Germany would get their revenge this time around. A late Andreas Brehme penalty kick sunk Argentina 1-0 in the final, denying Maradona another World Cup trophy.

More Disappointment Since 1990

Argentina has not returned to the World Cup final since that heartbreaking loss in 1990. They were bounced in the round of 16 in 1994 and narrowly lost to the Netherlands in the semifinals in 2014. Their best result was a second place finish in 2014, when a Lionel Messi-led squad fell to Germany.

In 2018, Argentina was on the ropes after a shocking 3-0 loss to Croatia in the group stage. However, they rallied to sneak into the knockout round before bowing out to eventual champion France. The lackluster showing renewed questions about whether Messi could lead Argentina to World Cup glory.

Expectations for 2022

As Argentina prepares for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the main question is whether this will be Lionel Messi's last chance at a World Cup trophy. Now 35 years old, he may not have another opportunity after this tournament.

Argentina cruised through CONMEBOL qualifying and will be expected to get out of their group in Qatar. Veteran contributors like Angel Di Maria, Nicolas Otamendi, and Sergio Aguero have likely played their last World Cup, so Messi will need new running mates like Lautaro Martinez and Paulo Dybala to step up.

If Argentina can recreate their solid form from the Copa America championships in 2021, they should be considered among the contenders at the World Cup. With Messi potentially facing his World Cup swan song, he will be more motivated than ever to cap his legendary career with that elusive trophy.

As they pursue their third World Cup title, Argentina will need to recapture the magic from 1978 and 1986. For a proud soccer nation like Argentina, the World Cup brings out their best. After coming so agonizingly close in 2014, they are eager to climb back on top of the world in 2022.

FAQs

How many World Cup titles has Argentina won?

Argentina has won two World Cup titles, in 1978 and 1986.

Who was Argentina's star player in their 1978 World Cup win?

Mario Kempes was the star of Argentina's first World Cup winning team in 1978. He scored a tournament-best 6 goals and won the Golden Boot.

Which legendary player led Argentina to the 1986 World Cup title?

Diego Maradona was the central figure in Argentina's 1986 World Cup championship run. His "Hand of God" and solo goal against England are two of the most famous World Cup moments ever.

What heartbreaking loss did Argentina suffer in the 1990 World Cup?

In 1990, defending champion West Germany defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final on a late penalty kick. This denied Maradona another World Cup title.

Who is Argentina's current star as they chase another World Cup in 2022?

At age 35, Lionel Messi is likely facing his last realistic chance to lead Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. As one of soccer's all-time greats, Messi is hoping to cap his career with that elusive trophy.