Spanish explorers arrived in Argentina in the early 1500’s, claiming this country’s land as their own. Fighting for land and resources was rampant during these first few centuries. Neighboring countries Chile, Peru, and Brazil all wanted a part of present day Argentina. In the early 1800’s, Argentine forces traveled to Chile and Peru and would fight in several battles before gaining independence. Brazil was another story, as they wanted the northern part of Argentina (present day Uruguay). After battling for this land for years (battle known as the Argentina-Brazil War), a truce was declared between the two countries allowing for the birth of the independent state of Uruguay.
In the late 1800’s, Europeans bombarded Argentina, bringing their culture and money with them. This led to a solid economic state and a brighter future for this rapidly developing country. Argentina quickly became one of the richest countries in the world as a result of an agricultural-led society and newfound wealth. Over the next century, Argentina would enjoy prosperity never before seen in this part of the world.
An unexpected benefit of the European migration was the plethora of athletes that it brought to Argentina. Roughly 86% of the country’s population is of European descent, which hasn’t hurt its athletic exploits over the last half century. Soccer had been played for years in Europe before making its debut in Argentina, but the influx of Europeans rapidly increased its popularity. Argentina has won 2 World Cups, 2 Olympic gold medals, and 14 Copa America tournaments in its history, easily making it one of the most successful soccer countries in the world.
South America – Argentina and Brazil specifically – are known for their athletic prowess on the soccer field, boasting world-class players seemingly year after year. One of Argentina’s favorite sons – and widely considered one of the best players ever, along with Brazil’s Pele – Diego Maradona was the darling of world soccer for years. His diminutive stature and trickery were mesmerizing as he led Le Albicelestes (Light blued and whites) to their 2nd World Cup title in 1986 in Mexico. The country was crazy for their soccer team and fans could often be seen shooting firecrackers in the stands at international matches.
If Maradona was the 1st beloved Argentine soccer great, Lionel Messi is the 2nd. Maradona himself has stated that Messi is the best Argentine player ever, a sentiment backed by most of the soccer world. Messi won both the Ballon d’Or and the FIFA World Player of the Year awards by the age of 22. He isn’t the only Argentine player that is revered in world soccer. Gonzalo Higuain is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with at Real Madrid, and along with Carlos Tevez (Manchester City), forge a striking partnership that rivals the best in the world.
With seemingly endless talent, Argentina looks to win their 3rd World Cup in South Africa this summer. Although qualification was scary by barely making it into the competition, Le Albiceleste is always a team that gives their all and has the talent to win any game with any team on the planet.
With Messi and company on the field, they may just get their shot.
Player to Watch: Lionel Messi
Game to Watch: Opener against Nigeria
Predicted World Cup result: Quarterfinals
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Albiceleste is probably the most recognizable international soccer jersey in the world with its light blue and whites stripes. This Adidas version is a bit vintage, as it uses silver lining for the first time since Diego Maradona led Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986. A sun, mimicking the one on Argentina’s flag is emblazoned on the back of the shirt at the neck to remind the country to “live crowned with glory.”
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