Always a favorite in the America Cup, Argentina will try to break the 14 year title drought. Since their title in 1993 the national team has been a let down in the tournament, and has not been able to achieve their 15th title.
At least in the last edition, the team led by Coach Marcelo Bielsa made it to the final. Even though the Argentines played the reserves they were unable to beat Brazil. The Argentines lost in the penalty shootout.
Argentina with a new coach (Alfio Basile) and a revamped squad plan to erase the memories left behind from a disappointing performance in the last World Cup, where they were eliminated in the quarterfinals. This new generation of players, led by Lionel Messi, look to restore Argentina dominance.
Coach
Alfio Basile
Alfio Basile, also know as Coco, represents to the Argentines the hope of winning another America Cup. The last two titles in this competition (1991 and 1993) occurred under Basile, who before taking over the national team for the 1991 tournament led Boca Juniors to a Clausura, and a Recopa title.
The Star
Lionel Messi
Messi is no longer a promising young prospect. He will make his America Cup debut as one of the most important European based players. He has world class skill, and is one the standouts on FC Barcelona. His skill was even more evident when he scored a similar goal to the one Maradona scored in World Cup 1986.
