Ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final showdown with Spain, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni says it’s the devotion of his country’s fans that keeps the defending champions hungry for another title.
Speaking at a Friday press conference in New York, Scaloni was asked how his squad stays motivated after already claiming the sport’s ultimate prize.
“You see your people, how they celebrate, how they are happy, that gets you, it’s impossible for it not to touch your heart,” he said.
Before the tournament began, some analysts suggested Argentina might not compete with the same intensity as a defending champion. But the team has repeatedly battled back from difficult moments, fueled by the energy of their passionate supporters.
“At the end we play for them, the team plays for the country, for their family,” Scaloni said. “The fans of Boca and River hug and celebrate together in front of the TV – how can that not affect you?”
Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez shared that sentiment wholeheartedly.
“The fans are absolutely crazy, different to other countries, seeing them celebrate at 2am in the cold Argentine weather means a lot,” Martinez told reporters. “We are going to do our best to bring back the cup to our country.”
Martinez, who has occasionally drawn attention for his antics and psychological tactics during penalty shootouts, said he is enjoying this World Cup far more than the Qatar 2022 tournament — despite Argentina ultimately winning that one. He pointed to their painful 2-1 opening loss to Saudi Arabia in 2022 as a particularly difficult memory.
Scaloni acknowledged the team is in solid shape heading into the final, though Argentina has had one less day to prepare than Spain after their semifinal against England on Wednesday in Atlanta.
“We don’t have much time to train,” he said. “Last night we arrived at 11pm, tomorrow will be busy, I’ll speak to them and see how they are but in principle they are all good.”
The final sets up a compelling matchup between Argentina — driven by intensity and the brilliance of star player Lionel Messi — and Spain, the European champions featuring Lamine Yamal, a side known for their mastery of possession and control.
For Messi, the match could represent the crowning moment of an already legendary career.
“To be able to arrive at a final as he has at 39 I think is something incredible,” Scaloni said. “We have to value what he does… He has managed something that years ago was not thought possible. It wasn’t easy to get to this point, and to compete at this level. I hope we win but if not he’ll still be an example for all.”
When asked whether this might be Messi’s final World Cup appearance, Scaloni laughed off the question. “How do I know!” he said.
