As the world of soccer heads to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey for a historic World Cup match between Spain and Argentina, one former winner has backed Argentina to bring the trophy home again.
1978 World Cup hero Mario Kempes, who famously finished as top scorer when La Albiceleste won their first title, believes Lionel Scaloni’s men have improved mentally throughout the tournament.
“Argentina faced many challenges, having to come from behind in three games, which shows their resilience and ability to change games,” Kempes told AS.
“Spain also managed to finish their games in 90 minutes, winning two of them almost in the last minutes. This suggests that a close game is possible. I believe that Argentina has a little chance, because they are able to overcome difficulties.”
After dealing with the huge pressure of a World Cup final in person, the former Valencia striker has warned that regular tournament form counts for less when the whistle blows.
‘Like touching the sky’
“The first thing is that you have to understand that you have done things well until now, but to win you have to do it, and do it very well, because it is the last game, which has a decision, it is the one that can put you in the top or second place,” added Kempes.
“Winning the World Cup is not easy, and repeating it is even more difficult. Argentina has a chance to do it; for me, it is the favorite. If Lionel Messi lifts the trophy, it will be like touching the sky. Nothing big.”
Despite his deep ties to Spanish football, Kempes admitted his loyalties remain strong with his country ahead of what promises to be a tactical, high-pressure battle.
“I am from Argentina, I was taken by Spanish fans, and also by Valencia fans, but as an Argentine, I will always support Argentina,” he said.
“I think it will be a very interesting game, a clash where both teams handle the ball very well. There will be a lot of pressure on both sides; they will not let the ball out of the game because they will press too high up the pitch to prevent any build-up play. In the end, what is clear is that we who are watching from the sidelines will suffer. And everyone who plays in Spain, Argentina is a game.”
Messi’s “Second Wind” in Miami
The biggest talking point heading into the final has been the impressive form of 39-year-old Messi. Kempes freely admitted that, like many pundits, he had doubts about how much of an impact the Inter Miami superstar would have at this stage of his career.
“We all thought he wouldn’t, me included. I thought I should talk to the coach to see how many minutes he’s going to get, but he’s on the second wind, and that’s good for him,” said Kempes.
“He’s in a team that’s not like the one in Europe, with strong plans, who are always on top of you and want to win, win, win. In Miami, you can enjoy life, go out with your family anywhere, that’s why he came young, eager, and motivated.”
