Since the start of this World Cup, Argentina have, by far, been the most hated national team. They already were before, but during this tournament the hatred has increased dramatically and, honestly, there are reasons for that.
The Argentine style, that love for physical football and rough challenges, is something that comes from the grassroots all the way to the top. You see it in South American competitions, the Copa Libertadores, the Copa Sudamericana, and naturally it carries over to the national team. Against other national teams, especially those outside that environment, it stands out even more and creates greater rejection.
Of course, there is also the Messi factor. Just as with Neymar, Cristiano Ronaldo, Yamal and other big names, there will always be a divide. But here it was different. The hatred became global, or at least very visible across the Western world.
That aggressive style and attitude of superiority are things that can be criticised. At the same time, it was exactly that which brought them this far. They are extremely competitive, they play on the edge and they rely heavily on Messi.
Then there is the refereeing. You cannot accuse anyone directly, but there were decisions that raised many questions. And this is nothing new. The same discussion already happened in 2022.
And the most frustrating thing for everyone against them: Argentina came close to being eliminated several times. They struggled to beat Cape Verde, came from behind against Egypt, had difficulties against Switzerland and took advantage of England’s stupidity. Always on the edge, always scoring late, always finding a way through.
Was this the final the world wanted? Not really, but the team that truly deserved it won.
Conclusion
Argentina may not play the most beautiful football, they may annoy people and generate rejection, but there is one thing that cannot be denied: they know how to compete. They deserve to be hated and they behave like children in countless moments throughout their history, both at this World Cup and in every match.