After years without cutlery, Argentina has returned as one of the most dominant national teams in history, with Lionel Messi at the helm. But in a country where football is deeply intervened in the culture, not everyone who agrees that this era is the biggest. An Argentine Legend has weighed in and pointed out what Messi’s team still lacks to be considered the best in the country’s history.
Since 2021, Argentina has won a World Cup, two Copa Americas and a FinalissimaMarks one of the most successful runs for all national teams in modern times. Also 1986 World Cup champion Oscar Ruggeri has publicly praised the current squad led by Messi.
However, Mario Alberto Kempes—A VM -Winner in 1978 Which was also the top scorer and best player of the tournament – awarded a different perspective. He emphasized the performance from previous generations and what this current group must achieve in order to get the title Argentina’s largest:
“These guys just won one World Cup, they didn’t win two. 1978 -team won a World Cup, and the 1986 team won a World Cup. Now, if they win the next World Cup, I can say they are absolutely right, but You have to win two World Cups before you are called the best national team“Said Kempes in an interview with the Azz Youtube channel.
On the question of Argentina’s back-to-back Copa América titles, trifle Kempes their importance: “Copa America? Yes, it’s great to win it, but Argentina lost two finals against Chile and the world did not end. Just because Argentina won two in a row does not mean that they are the best of the best. If they win another World Cup I will tip my hat. “
See also
Lionel Messis Argentina reigns the highest in the FIFA ranking: Where is Kylian Mbappes France, Vinicius’ Brazil and Cristiano Ronaldos Portugal Stand?
“The story of Argentine football was written by us all – it’s not just about the latest chapter“He added. Despite the criticism, Argentina remains a dominant force in international football and have already qualified for the World Cup 2026. With Messi who still leads the team, they will take a picture to cement their place as one of the big troops.
Argentina: Two years at the top
Argentina first reached No. 1 in FIFA World Rankings on April 6, 2023 and has entertained it through the latest update this Thursday. With 1,886 points, the reigning world champions have now held the top position for over two years and have been given the fifth longest government since the ranking was introduced in 1993.
That brand is currently being held by Spainthat spent 2 years, 9 months and 25 days On No. 1 between September 21, 2011 and July 17, 2014, after their triumphs at Euro 2008 and 2010 World Cup. With almost a year and a half left for the next World Cup, Argentina has a real shot at exceeding that milestone if their dominant form continues.
