Argentina’s players have earned a reputation for fighting back when the odds are against them, and many believe that spirit could help them win a second straight FIFA World Cup title.
Players, coaches and fans have all spoken about the team’s resilience ahead of Sunday’s final against Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
“I think this team plays its best when it’s in trouble,” Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said after his side came from behind to beat England 2-1 in the semi-finals.
England had taken the lead, but Argentina responded with two late goals to book their place in the final.
Argentina have made a habit of dramatic comebacks during the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup, with captain Lionel Messi often leading the way.
They needed two extra-time goals to beat Cape Verde 3-2 and reach the last 16. In the next round, they were trailing Egypt 2-0 with just over 20 minutes left before Messi inspired a remarkable comeback with three late goals.
The quarter-final against Switzerland was another tough test. Argentina looked tired for long periods but scored twice in the second half of extra time to avoid a penalty shootout.
“It’s a group of people who, despite adversity, never give up,” 44-year-old Buenos Aires lawyer and Argentina fan Matias Cirelli told AFP.
Cirelli believes the team’s fighting spirit reflects the country’s own history.
“Argentines are never going to consider a battle lost, even if the outlook is completely unfavourable,” he said.
Many believe Scaloni has played a key role in building this mindset since taking charge in 2018.
He has built the team around eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi, who finally lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022 after years of trying.
Under Scaloni, Argentina have become one of the world’s most successful teams, winning back-to-back Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup. They are now just one win away from defending their world title.
Pablo Nigro, president of the Argentine Sport Psychology Association, said the team’s success is the result of years of hard work.
“This team sees pressure as an opportunity for self-improvement, for excellence,” he said.
Nigro believes that mentality comes partly from the players themselves and partly from the environment in Argentina.
“We live in a very success-driven country, where from a young age we’re constantly expected to win,” he said.
Federico Czesli, an anthropologist who studies football development in Argentina, believes the country’s youth system also shapes players’ mentality.
He said young footballers are taught the importance of sacrifice and humility, with many coming from modest backgrounds. From an early age, they feel a responsibility to support their families and repay the faith shown by their coaches.
“What humility does is give the player… the main tool for overcoming adversity and moving forward,” Czesli said.
He also believes Argentina’s passionate supporters help push the team to keep fighting until the final whistle.
“The typical fan demands from the Argentine footballer not so much good play as giving everything,” Czesli said. “As long as that happens, you leave with your head held high.”
