Women’s World Cup 2023: Argentina in-depth team guide and prediction

This team guide is part of a collaboration with the Guardian and other leading newspapers from the nations participating at the Women’s World Cup 2023.

Overview

Argentina have a very clear target in their fourth World Cup: a win. Three defeats in 2003 were followed by three more in 2007, and while in France in 2019 they picked up two draws – against Japan and Scotland – a victory remained elusive.

The Albiceleste have been improving but the arrival of coach Germán Portanova three years ago has taken their game to a higher level and qualification for the World Cup was secured with a third-place finish at the 2022 Copa América. “The truth is that they called me to take Argentina to the World Cup,” he said. “It is exciting to be able to face top teams in the world, they have a different rhythm, a different speed, but we will try not to lose our essence and compete well.”

The squad has a blend of youth and experience. Established players such as Estefanía Banini (Atlético Madrid), Vanina Correa (Rosario Central), Florencia Bonsegundo and Aldana Cometti (both Madrid CFF) dovetail with younger teammates who are mostly based domestically and are, in all likelihood, ones for the future.

The goal is clear – a victory, any victory – but their recent progress means fans can be enthusiastic about the possibility of qualifying for the knockout stage for the first time. Experienced goalkeeper Correa, playing in her fourth World Cup, could be vital in achieving that lofty aim, lining up behind a well-drilled backline.

Taking motivation from the success of Lionel Messi and Argentina’s men’s side in Qatar is also useful – to a point. “It is a big inspiration, but the expectation is not the same,” the forward Paulina Gramaglia told the Associated Press. “We don’t have the same foundation that they have, we are not seeking to win the trophy. We have our own goals and our context.”

The coach

Germán Portanova was a globetrotting defender in his playing days, turning out for teams in Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, Spain and Italy. His first step as a coach in women’s football was at Deportivo UAI Urquiza, where he became a three-time league champion and managed the team in three editions of the Copa Libertadores. Portanova took over the national side in 2021. “This is the most exciting thing that has happened to me in my football career,” he said on his appointment. “Being able to direct the women’s national team is the best. Representing your country is defending the flag, the heart, the homeland.”

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Star player

In 2021 Estefanía Banini became the first Argentinian woman to be named in FIFA’s World XI. Her technique and ability mean the 33-year-old Mendoza-born midfielder remains key to the national side. This will be her second and probably last World Cup. “I understand that this is over [soon] and I have enjoyed it to the fullest,” she said. “I have mixed feelings: I would love to play for life, especially with the national team.”

Rising star

Lorena Benítez made her debut in the Argentinian top flight before turning 14, the legal age required to play in Argentina. Her team forfeited the points from the match as a result. Today the 24-year-old is a midfielder who has great game intelligence on the field and a terrific eye for a pass. Currently on loan at Palmeiras in Brazil, Benítez stands out for her assists and shooting prowess; and she is improving all the time.

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Did you know?

Yamila Rodríguez makes headlines not just for her football but also for her tattoos: the Palmeiras striker has a huge portrait of Cristiano Ronaldo, her idol, on her left leg. “Without a doubt he is the best player in the world. He is perfect. I am amazed at everything he does,” she said. Rodríguez also has a Diego Maradona tattoo.

Standing of women’s football in Argentina

Growing, although it still has a long way to go. In March 2019, the first division turned professional and top-flight teams are required to have a minimum of 15 contracted players. However there are many things that need to develop, such as improvements in salaries so that players do not have to take second jobs.

Realistic aim at the World Cup?

In 2017 Argentina dropped out of the FIFA rankings due to two years of inactivity and the players went on strike to improve their conditions. So just reaching the tournament remains an achievement. That said, the aim now is to get a first World Cup win in a challenging group that contains Sweden, South Africa and Italy. Although Argentina’s recent performances have raised hopes of potentially even qualifying for the round of 16.