Mario Kempes, the star of Argentina’s first World Cup triumph in 1978, has backed his country to beat Spain in Monday’s final, saying Lionel Scaloni’s side have developed a psychological edge through their repeated ability to fight back from behind.
“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.”
Kempes, who finished as the tournament’s top scorer when Argentina won their first title in 1978, warned that form built up over the tournament counts for little once the final begins. “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,” he said. “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 spending his club career at Valencia and being embraced by Spanish fans over the years, Kempes said his loyalty remains with Argentina. “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. Ultimately, what’s clear is that those of us watching from the sidelines are going to suffer, Argentinians and Spaniards alike, but it’s going to be a great match.”
Kempes also addressed the form of 39-year-old Messi, who has inspired Argentina’s run to the final with two assists in the semi-final win over England alone. He admitted he had doubted whether Messi could still make an impact 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.”
Even while backing Argentina, Kempes acknowledged Spain’s threat, pointing to the strength of Luis de la Fuente’s midfield. “Spain has enough potential. First of all, they have good quality players who can control the ball well, and they have a dangerous midfield,” he said. “They haven’t scored many goals, but they haven’t conceded many either. I think they’ll be a very tough opponent for Argentina.”
