Tagliafico Sets Sights on Argentina's Second Consecutive World Cup Win
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| Tagliafico during Argentina training |
Argentina's Nicolas Tagliafico dreams of defending World Cup title in 2026, aiming to join Brazil and Italy as consecutive champions.
“It's a dream, like our dream of winning one, but we have to focus on the day-to-day...”
Nicolas Tagliafico says winning back-to-back World Cup titles would be a “dream” for Argentina. The full-back is hyped about the possibility of making history, as Argentina aims to be the first team to defend the title in 64 years.
Argentina's among the favorites for the tournament in the US, Mexico, and Canada, after their Qatar win inspired by Lionel Messi. They're looking strong, and Tagliafico's excited about the team's chances
Lionel Messi, 38, has announced this will be his sixth and final World Cup. Argentina is in strong form, topping the South American qualifiers.
Brazil, led by Pele, was the last team to win back-to-back World Cups (1958 and 1962). Italy won the second and third editions (1934 and 1938).
“Only Brazil and Italy have won two consecutive World Cups, but that was a long time ago,” Tagliafico said.
“It's a dream, like our dream of winning one, but we have to focus on the day-to-day, one match at a time, without getting carried away, because in the end, it's the daily work that will pay off.”
Young Blood Adds Excitement
Argentina's squad is largely unchanged since their Qatar win, with new additions like Nicolas Paz, Marcos Senesi, and Valentin Barco hoping to break into the World Cup lineup.
Joaquin Panichelli, Strasbourg's top scorer, was set to be a key player for Argentina but suffered a knee injury in training. He likely tore his ACL and might miss the World Cup, just three months before it starts.
Strugling with injuries ain't new for Argentina, but this one's a big blow.
“I think there's a mix of young players, perhaps less experienced, but with a lot of enthusiasm and a strong desire to wear the national jersey,” said Tagliafico.
“I have a good feeling about this team, even if sometimes it seems like they're relaxing.
“But in competitions like this, the team rediscovers its best form, it gets its motivation back.”
Lyon's Tagliafico knows the expanded 48-team tournament will be a different challenge, with matches spread across North America, unlike the compact Qatar setup.
“From travel to training and match venues, the truth is that nothing has been discussed regarding the overall organisation,” he added.
“We know we'll be in Kansas City (base camp), but apart from that, we know nothing...
"Furthermore, there's another crucial match, and we could have the misfortune, in the round of 32, for some unfortunate detail to eliminate us.
“It's a different World Cup, with many more teams, and I think it will be even more competitive.”
Argentina face Mauritius in a friendly on Friday, before continuing their World Cup preparations against Zambia on Tuesday. They were originally due to face European champions Spain in the Finalissima in Doha, but that game was cancelled due to the conflict involving the United States and Israel in Iran.
Their title defence starts on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City before moving on to Arlington where they will face Austria and Jordan.
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