The Argentina 2022 World Cup squad was a team filled with talent, experience, and a burning desire to bring the trophy home. After years of near misses and heartbreaks, this group of players, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, finally achieved the ultimate glory in Qatar. Let's dive deep into the complete list of players who made history, exploring their roles, contributions, and the impact they had on Argentina's triumph.

The Goalkeepers: Secure Hands

The goalkeeping position is crucial in any successful team, and Argentina was well-served by their shot-stoppers. These guys provided the last line of defense, making critical saves and exuding confidence that spread throughout the team.

• Emiliano Martínez: Affectionately known as "Dibu," Martínez emerged as a national hero during the World Cup. His penalty shootout heroics against the Netherlands in the quarter-finals and France in the final will forever be etched in the memories of Argentine fans. Beyond the shootouts, his commanding presence in the box, excellent reflexes, and ability to make crucial saves at key moments were instrumental in Argentina's success. Dibu's journey to becoming a World Cup winner is a testament to his perseverance and dedication. He spent years as a backup goalkeeper in England before finally getting his chance to shine, and he grabbed it with both hands.
• Franco Armani: A veteran goalkeeper with vast experience playing for River Plate, Armani provided valuable backup and leadership to the squad. While he didn't feature prominently in the tournament, his presence in the dressing room and his readiness to step in if needed were important assets. Armani's calmness and experience helped to keep the goalkeeping unit focused and prepared for any eventuality. He's a true professional who understands his role and always puts the team first.
• Gerónimo Rulli: Completing the goalkeeping trio was Rulli, who offered further depth and competition. Though he didn't see any game time, his inclusion in the squad highlighted the importance of having reliable options in every position. Rulli's dedication and hard work in training helped to push Martínez and Armani to be their best, creating a competitive and supportive environment within the team.

The Defenders: The Backbone

A solid defense is the foundation of any successful team, and Argentina's defenders proved to be resilient and organized throughout the tournament. They faced some of the world's best attackers but consistently stood firm, protecting their goal and providing a platform for the team's attacking players to shine. The Argentina 2022 World Cup squad defenders were instrumental in the team's success.

• Nicolás Otamendi: A seasoned veteran, Otamendi was the leader of the Argentine defense. His experience, aggression, and aerial prowess were vital in shutting down opposition attacks. Otamendi's passion and commitment were evident in every game, and he set the tone for the rest of the defense. He's a warrior who never gives up and always puts his body on the line for his country.
• Cristian Romero: Known for his uncompromising tackling and no-nonsense defending, Romero quickly established himself as a key member of the Argentina defense. His partnership with Otamendi was a formidable one, providing a solid barrier against even the most dangerous attackers. Romero's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he brought a sense of intensity to the team.
• Lisandro Martínez: Martínez's versatility allowed him to play in multiple positions across the defense, making him a valuable asset to the squad. His composure on the ball and ability to read the game were also important qualities. Martínez's ability to seamlessly slot into different roles gave the coach tactical flexibility and helped to maintain the team's defensive solidity.
• Marcos Acuña: A dynamic left-back, Acuña provided both defensive solidity and attacking impetus. His tireless running and ability to deliver dangerous crosses made him a constant threat down the left flank. Acuña's energy and commitment were vital to the team's overall performance, and he played a key role in both defense and attack.
• Nicolás Tagliafico: Another reliable left-back, Tagliafico offered a steady presence and valuable experience to the squad. His defensive awareness and ability to win tackles made him a difficult opponent for any winger. Tagliafico's consistency and dependability were important qualities that helped to solidify the Argentine defense.
• Gonzalo Montiel: Montiel will forever be remembered for scoring the decisive penalty in the World Cup final shootout. However, his contributions throughout the tournament were also significant. A solid right-back, Montiel provided defensive stability and was always willing to put in a tackle. His composure under pressure was evident in the final, and he stepped up to deliver the winning moment for his country.
• Nahuel Molina: Molina's attacking instincts and pace made him a dangerous threat down the right flank. His ability to get forward and deliver crosses added another dimension to the Argentine attack. Molina's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite.
• Juan Foyth: A versatile defender who can play in multiple positions, Foyth provided valuable cover and competition to the squad. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions made him a reliable option off the bench. Foyth's dedication and hard work in training helped to push the other defenders to be their best.

The Midfielders: The Engine Room

The midfield is the heart of any team, and Argentina's midfield was full of creativity, energy, and tactical intelligence. These players controlled the tempo of the game, won crucial battles in the center of the park, and provided the link between defense and attack. The Argentina 2022 World Cup squad midfielders were pivotal in the team's success.

• Rodrigo De Paul: De Paul was the engine of the Argentine midfield, providing endless energy, tenacity, and a relentless work rate. His ability to win the ball back, make tackles, and drive the team forward was crucial to Argentina's success. De Paul's passion and commitment were evident in every game, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His influence extended beyond the field, as he was also a key figure in the dressing room, known for his positive attitude and leadership qualities.
• Enzo Fernández: Fernández was one of the breakout stars of the World Cup, quickly establishing himself as a key member of the Argentine midfield. His composure on the ball, ability to pick a pass, and willingness to run made him a dynamic and exciting player to watch. Fernández's performances earned him the Young Player of the Tournament award, and he is undoubtedly a star of the future.
• Alexis Mac Allister: Mac Allister's versatility and tactical intelligence made him a valuable asset to the squad. He was able to play in multiple positions across the midfield, and his ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was crucial in breaking up opposition attacks. Mac Allister's calmness and composure under pressure were also important qualities that helped to stabilize the Argentine midfield.
• Leandro Paredes: Paredes provided a calming presence in the center of midfield, dictating the tempo of the game with his precise passing and intelligent movement. His ability to win the ball back and protect the defense was also crucial. Paredes' experience and leadership were important assets to the team.
• Guido Rodríguez: Rodríguez offered a more defensive-minded option in midfield, providing a shield in front of the defense and winning crucial tackles. His strength and aerial ability were also valuable assets in defending set-pieces. Rodríguez's commitment and work rate made him a reliable and dependable player.
• Exequiel Palacios: Palacios provided further depth and competition in midfield. His ability to run with the ball and create chances made him a useful option off the bench. Palacios' energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he always gave his all for the team.

The Forwards: The Cutting Edge

The forwards are the players who provide the goals and create the magic that wins games. Argentina's forward line was led by the incomparable Lionel Messi, but it also featured other talented and dangerous players who contributed to the team's success. These Argentina 2022 World Cup squad forwards were crucial to the team's success.

• Lionel Messi: What can be said about Messi that hasn't already been said? He is arguably the greatest footballer of all time, and he finally achieved his lifelong dream of winning the World Cup. Messi was the heart and soul of the Argentine team, leading by example with his incredible skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability. He scored seven goals in the tournament, including two in the final, and was awarded the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament. Messi's legacy is now complete, and he will forever be remembered as an Argentine hero.
• Ángel Di María: Di María has been a key member of the Argentine national team for over a decade, and he finally got his hands on the World Cup trophy. His pace, skill, and ability to score crucial goals made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Di María scored a vital goal in the final against France and was a constant thorn in their side. His experience and leadership were also important assets to the team.
• Lautaro Martínez: While Martínez didn't have his best tournament in terms of goals, his work rate, movement, and ability to create chances were still valuable to the team. He stretched opposition defenses and created space for Messi and Di María to operate. Martínez's commitment and dedication were never in question.
• Julián Álvarez: Álvarez emerged as a surprise package during the World Cup, scoring four goals and providing a constant threat to opposition defenses. His pace, skill, and clinical finishing made him a valuable asset to the team. Álvarez's performances earned him a regular starting spot, and he is undoubtedly a star of the future.
• Paulo Dybala: Dybala's inclusion in the squad was a boost to Argentina's attacking options. While he didn't feature prominently, his creativity and ability to score goals from outside the box made him a dangerous player to have on the bench. Dybala's quality and experience were valuable assets to the team.
• Joaquín Correa: Correa's versatility allowed him to play in multiple positions across the forward line, making him a valuable asset to the squad. His ability to run with the ball and create chances made him a useful option off the bench. Correa's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he always gave his all for the team.

The Coach: The Mastermind

• Lionel Scaloni: Scaloni took over as Argentina coach in 2018 and has transformed the team into a well-organized, disciplined, and passionate unit. His tactical acumen, man-management skills, and ability to get the best out of his players were crucial to Argentina's success. Scaloni's calm and composed demeanor helped to keep the team focused under pressure, and he deserves immense credit for leading Argentina to World Cup glory.

The Argentina 2022 World Cup squad was more than just a team of talented individuals; it was a collective of warriors who fought for each other, for their country, and for their dream. They overcame adversity, showed resilience, and ultimately achieved the ultimate glory. Their names will forever be etched in Argentine football history.