World Cup Corner

Argentina, like Brazil has been well known as a country that produces world class footballers at a frightening rate. In fact, the rivalry between both countries (who can claim a total of 7 World Cups between them), can be traced long before the sport had become a religion in both countries.

During the Americas colonization, Spain and Portugal were at war to gain control over the vast portions of land, especially around Río de la Plata, which was considered a strategic location.

Today few remember the physical and political confrontations, and the intense rivalry exists primarily in sporting events. None greater than in football. Think Diego Maradona vs Pele. Who was the greatest footballer of all time? While the Brazillians have the upper hand in terms of World Cups won (5 total), the next generation of Argentinian players gives me great hope and has to be one of the favoured teams to win it in South Africa 2010.

Here are some of the outstanding talents today. With 2 more years to go until the next World Cup, the idea is that the following players mature and progress to become the world beaters they are tipped to be.

Lionel Messi (Barcelona-Spain, born 1987)
Rodrigo Palacio (Boca-Argentina, born 1982)
Sergio Aguero (Atletico de Madrid-Spain, born 1988)
Fernando Gago (Real Madrid-Spain, born 1986)
Gonzalo Higuain (Real Madrid-Spain, born 1987)
Javier Mascherano (West Ham-England, born 1984)
Carlos Tevez (West Ham-England, born 1984)
Oscar Ustari (Independiente-Argentina, born 1986)
Pablo Zabaleta (Espanyol-Spain, born 1985)
Fernando Beluschi (River-Argentina, born 1983)

Of the above, Lionel Messi, Fernando Gago, Javier Mascherano and Carlos Tevez are the most highly rated and will likely form the spine of the 2010 Argentinian team. Here’s hoping they add to the 1978 and 1986 World Cups!