Argentina remains a team to root for in the World Cup

The Argentina national team has played an irregular World Cup, but has shown some of its best qualities. Although it is slower than in 2022, it is still an offensive team with a solid midfield and dynamic wingbacks that help in attack. It creates spaces with a variety of strategies, breaking rivals who have built nine-player moats, with Messi playing from the midfield and forward, on the left and right of the field and with forwards that have delivered when needed.

What's behind the geopolitical criticism?

Geopolitical moralizing has lost its mind in the world of football. Complaints about VAR are mixed with outrage over Milei's cozy relationship with Trump and Netanyahu. Don't let the moralizing get you down: Argentina is still a team to root for. The World Cup is an occasion for joy, wonder, and discovery - of the enthusiasm of fans, of the talents of unheralded squads, of the new prowess known favorites will deploy.

What comes next?

The Argentina national team faces Spain in their next match, on July 19, 2026. With their playing style and their community of fans, they remain a team to root for in the World Cup. Last result: England 1-2 Argentina (2026-07-15). Recent form (last 5): 5W-0D-0L (WWWWW, most recent first); on a 5-game winning run.

The football community

Football is a horizontal space of camaraderie, despite the oppressive forces of capitalism that crush it. We play, celebrate, and watch football, and then endlessly discuss how we played, celebrated, and watched. In many respects, football is a de-commodified space, without ulterior gains beyond the symbolic achievements and the reinforcing sense of belonging to a given community.