What’s Next for Argentina? The 2022 FIFA World Cup Champions Are Looking to Repeat the Title
Soccer is a national affair in Argentina. The streets of Buenos Aires are filled with soccer-themed street art, making it clear to tourists that soccer is more than just a sport in the South American country; it is a culture. From Diego Maradona to Lionel Messi, Argentina has become a world-renowned soccer powerhouse that never seems to disappoint its fans. The three-time FIFA World Cup Champions will definitely be looking to walk away with another title on this occasion, and they have already showcased their prowess on the field after just one game. Can the Albiceleste keep winning and make their way to another final? We are about to find out.
Argentina Off to a Great Start
FIFA World Cup history dates back to 1930, when hosts Uruguay beat Argentina 4-2 in the first-ever World Cup Final. Since then, many things have changed, but Argentina is still at the top of world soccer. In 96 years, only two teams have won consecutive World Cup titles: Italy in 1934 and 1938, and Brazil in 1958 and 1962. Over six decades have passed since a team won two cups in a row, which is only proof of how hard it is to achieve. This time, the Albiceleste is hoping to repeat the feat. However, Argentina does not seem to be feeling the pressure; a 3-0 win over Algeria positioned them at the top of their group. If they keep it up, qualifying for the Round of 32 will be child’s play.
The Albiceleste to Face Austria
Argentina’s next match is this Monday, June 22nd, against Austria, a team that boasts the same number of points as the former in Group J. The European cohort had not won a World Cup game since 1990, a spell that was broken this Wednesday, after they beat Jordan 3-1. It is also important to note that Austria has not participated in a FIFA World Cup in 28 years, making this edition an unforgettable one for the fans. Argentina’s goal difference already puts them in the top position of their group, a position they will be looking to consolidate against Das Team. Emerging victorious from the encounter will probably earn the Albiceleste a qualification to the knockout round.
Final Group-Stage Game Against Jordan
Argentina will be facing Jordan in their final group-stage game on Saturday, June 28th. The Middle Eastern nation is one of the debut countries in this edition of the FIFA World Cup, meaning that their final group-stage game will be against none other than the world champions. The Brave Ones have not had a great World Cup run, losing their first game to Austria, which puts them in third place overall in Group J. The Albiceleste will be looking to end the group stage on a good note, which will give them a boost before entering the next round. Argentina can afford mistakes, but not making any would make rivals shiver with awe.
Final Thoughts
The Albiceleste started the World Cup the best way possible, positioning themselves at the top of their group with a three-goal differential. Argentina has demonstrated to everyone that they are still the team to beat and that they will not give away the title without a fight. Messi’s last dance is proving to be unforgettable for the fans and for the players alike. It would be beyond amazingly impressive to see Argentina win the title for the second consecutive time, but let's not get ahead of ourselves. The team is in good shape and will probably make it past the group stage with no problems. After that, the fun begins.
