Argentina endured a torrid qualifying campaign under manager Diego Maradona, who seemed to grow increasingly eccentric as the pressure on him grew. However, the side came good in their crunch match in Uruguay, with Mario Bolatti’s late goal securing the 1-0 win which secured their place in South Africa. Argentina had only failed to qualify for a World Cup once in their history – in 1970 – but their victory secured the fourth and final qualifying spot in the South America group.
Whilst they may appear to be as weak as at any time in living memory, you can never truly write off a side that boasts attacking talent such as Barcelona’s 2009 Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, Atletico Madrid’s Sergio Aguero and Angel di Maria of Benfica. The manager’s selection policy is a concern though and they are vulnerable in defence. Whilst they undoubtedly possess the resources to be competitive, it is difficult to predict how they will get on in South Africa (although the number of detractors continues to grow) but whatever happens, with Maradona in the dugout it will be an interesting ride.
Manager: Diego Maradona
Key player: Lionel Messi
Best: Winners (1978, 1986)
World ranking: 8