Culture
Sport
Sport in Argentina.
Soccer (“fútbol”) is the most popular sport in Argentina. Argentina has produced two of the greatest football players of all time one was the legend, Diego Maradona in the 80’s and 90’s and currently, the other legend, Lionel Messi. Argentina has been the champion of FIFA’s World Cup twice (Argentina 1978 and Mexico 1986) and won gold twice in the Olympics (Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008).
Other popular sports in Argentina are: Polo, horse racing, rugby and tennis.
A sport that is unique to Argentina from around the 17th century is pato (“duck”), which is played on an open field between two teams of four horsemen. The riders carry a leather ball (which was originally a duck trapped in a basket) by its large handles and throw it through the other team’s goal, which is a hoop on a post.
Pato (“Duck”), a sport unique to Argentina
Diego Maradona in action
Does everyone enjoy these sports? What are the reasons?
Soccer and polo were both introduced by the British in the 19th Century, but were popular with different groups. Polo and horse-racing were enjoyed around the Pampas where there is a lot of space to practice. Ranch hands would often become successful and earn a good wage.
Soccer on the other hand, was popular with the working class. Professional soccer players often came from poor backgrounds and worked hard to achieve wealth and fame. They were inspired by players like Diego Maradona.
Other popular sports such as tennis, yachting and Rugby are mostly played by the wealthy and urban middle class, with sports clubs and private clubs offering classes in these.
Due to sexism that exists in Argentina, women haven’t played as much soccer professionally, or sport in general. The soccer federation, the clubs and the general public have refused to recognise Women’s soccer at a professional level.
Through history, women have been banned from playing altogether and recently have not been well supported. In 2017 the players protested and refused to play for the national team until the AFA paid $8.50 per day for training and offered regular matches and training staff. The AFA refused these demands.
How does soccer affect the people?
Pride and Loyalty.
About 90% of people in Argentina now follow an Argentine soccer team, so it is by far the most popular sport. Although women aren’t represented professionally, they enjoy watching the sport. The sport provides Argentines with a sense of pride and entertainment, with their national team being one of the best in the world and winning many cups and tournaments. Many people watch their favourite teams on TV, as well as in stadiums and often travel to follow their teams.
Something to aspire to.
Soccer is no longer popular only with the working class, it is now the most popular recreational sport, played from childhood into old age. It is a way to stay fit, keep entertained and gives people a goal. Many have a dream that with enough practice, they may one day be as good as their soccer heroes.
How does Argentina compare to other countries in Soccer?
Argentina ranks very well in the FIFA World rankings, coming in the top 10 as can be seen below:
FIFA World Rankings as of 9 April 2020
| Rank | Team | Points |
| 1 | Belgium | 1765 |
| 2 | France | 1733 |
| 3 | Brazil | 1712 |
| 4 | England | 1661 |
| 5 | Uraguay | 1645 |
| 6 | Croatia | 1642 |
| 7 | Portugal | 1649 |
| 8 | Spain | 1636 |
| 9 | Argentina | 1623 |
| 10 | Colombia | 1622 |
How do Australia and Argentina compare when it comes to soccer?
What can we learn?
Australia’s team, the Socceroos have represented Australia in multiple cups and tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup five times. Although a very successful team, they have not yet been as successful as Argentina professionally. Australian’s often look to successful players such as Maradona and Messi and learn their techniques.
E.g. the “Messi dribble”, where he slows down and does small steps, sot the defender doesn’t know when he is going to dribble past him. During the dribble, Messi uses a bent body shape that it helps him push forward.
See the Messi dribble in action at 0:47
