The historical rivalry between Mexico and Argentina in soccer
The confrontation between Mexico and Argentina transcends the field of play, consolidating itself as one of the most intense rivalries in the history of international football. This duel reached its peak during the Qatar World Cup 2022, where both teams met in the group stage. Although the Albiceleste won with goals from Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández, the match rekindled decades of competition and frustrations for the tricolor team.
Background: Argentine dominance in the World Cups
Since the first FIFA tournament in Uruguay 1930, Argentina has been a difficult rival for Mexico. On that occasion, the score ended 6-3 in favor of the South American team. In the modern era, the confrontations in Octafinals (Germany 2006 and South Africa 2010) and again in Qatar 2022 have perpetuated the drought of Mexican victories, fueling the ridicule of Argentine fans.
Mexico’s administrative victory in 1970
Few fans know the episode in which Mexico beat Argentina off the field. In 1970, FIFA was evaluating the candidatures to host the World Cup. Argentina, which had already failed in 1934, 1942 and 1962, tried again. However, Mexican infrastructure, particularly the newly built Azteca Stadium, impressed then-FIFA president Sir Stanley Rous. The final vote was overwhelming: 56 votes for Mexico against 32 for Argentina.
The consequences for Argentina
This administrative defeat marked the beginning of a dark period for Argentine football. After a series of changes in the technical and administrative direction, the Albiceleste team failed to qualify for the 1970 World Cup, eliminated by Bolivia and Peru in the qualifying rounds. This failure contrasted with the organizational success of Mexico, which hosted a memorable tournament and laid the foundations for its second World Cup in 1986.
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