As the footballing world turns its attention to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey for the monumental World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, a previous winner has backed Argentina to bring the trophy home again
1978 World Cup hero Mario Kempes, who famously finished as the top scorer when La Albiceleste won their first crown, believes Lionel Scaloni’s side has developed a unique psychological edge throughout the tournament.
“Argentina has faced many challenges, having to come from behind in three matches, which demonstrates their resilience and ability to turn games around,” Kempes told AS.
“Spain has also managed to finish their matches within the 90 minutes, winning two of them almost in the final moments. This suggests a close match is likely. I believe Argentina has a slight advantage, because they know how to overcome adversity.”
Having experienced the intense pressure of a World Cup final first-hand, the former Valencia striker warned that standard tournament form counts for little once the whistle blows.
‘Like touching the sky’
“The first thing is that you have to understand that you’ve done things well so far, but to win you have to do them, and do them very well, because it’s the last match, the decisive one, the one that can put you on the top or second step,” Kempes added.
“Winning a World Cup isn’t easy, and repeating it is even harder. Argentina has a chance to do it; for me, they’re the favourites. If Lionel Messi lifts the trophy, it will be like touching the sky. There’s nothing greater.”
Despite his deep ties to Spanish football, Kempes admitted his allegiance remains firmly with his homeland ahead of what promises to be a tactical, high-pressing battle.
“I’m Argentinian, adopted by Spanish fans, and of course by Valencia supporters, but as an Argentinian, I’ll always support Argentina,” he said.
“I think it’s going to be a very interesting match, a clash where both teams handle the ball very well. There will be high pressure from both sides; they won’t let the ball out of play because they’ll press very high up the pitch to prevent any build-up play. Ultimately, what’s clear is that those of us watching from the sidelines are going to suffer. Everyone, Argentinians and Spaniards alike, but it’s going to be a great match.”
Messi’s “Second Wind” in Miami
A major talking point heading into the final has been the sensational form of 39-year-old Messi. Kempes freely admitted that, like many pundits, he had doubts about how much impact the Inter Miami superstar could make at this stage of his career.
“We all thought he wouldn’t, myself included. I thought I’d have to talk to the coach to see how many minutes he’d get, but he’s in a second wind, and that’s great for him,” Kempes said.
“He’s in a league that’s not like the European ones, with such rigid systems, constantly on top of you and demanding to win, win, win. In Miami, you can enjoy life, go out with your family anywhere, and that’s why he’s arrived fresh, eager, and very motivated.”
