Argentina's 2014 World Cup Squad: The Complete List

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into a bit of football nostalgia, shall we? Remember the 2014 World Cup? The one where Argentina came so close to lifting the trophy? Yeah, that was a nail-biter! Today, we're going to take a trip down memory lane and look at the complete Argentina squad from that tournament. Understanding the composition of a team like Argentina in the 2014 World Cup involves more than just listing names; it's about appreciating the blend of talent, experience, and tactical choices made by the coach. This was a team built around a core group of players who had been together for several years, complemented by emerging talents eager to make their mark on the world stage. The selection process itself was a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, as it always is with a nation as passionate about football as Argentina. Every player brought a unique set of skills and attributes to the squad, and their collective performance ultimately defined Argentina's journey in the tournament. Furthermore, the team's dynamic was shaped by the leadership both on and off the field, the tactical flexibility to adapt to different opponents, and the overall chemistry that either propelled them forward or held them back.

The Road to Brazil

Argentina's journey to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil was a mix of expectation and pressure. As one of the footballing giants, Argentina is always expected to compete at the highest level. Securing their place in the tournament through the South American qualifiers was not always smooth sailing, but they ultimately finished at the top of the table. The qualification process provided valuable insights into the team's strengths and weaknesses, allowing the coaching staff to fine-tune their approach and identify areas for improvement. Key players emerged during this period, solidifying their positions in the squad and setting the stage for their performance in Brazil. The challenges faced during qualification also served to galvanize the team, fostering a sense of unity and determination that would be crucial in the World Cup.

Qualification Campaign

Argentina's qualification campaign was a testament to their resilience and attacking prowess. Finishing top of the South American qualifying group, they showcased moments of brilliance, particularly from their star-studded forward line. However, there were also periods of inconsistency, raising questions about their defensive solidity and tactical flexibility. Key victories against strong opponents boosted their confidence, while disappointing draws highlighted the need for improvement. Throughout the campaign, the team experimented with different formations and personnel, seeking to find the optimal balance between attack and defense. This process allowed the coaching staff to assess the depth of their squad and identify players capable of making an impact off the bench. The qualification campaign also provided valuable experience for younger players, preparing them for the pressures of international football and integrating them into the team's culture. Ultimately, Argentina's successful qualification was a result of their collective effort, tactical adjustments, and the individual brilliance of their key players.

Expectations

Going into the tournament, the expectations were sky-high. With Lionel Messi at the peak of his powers, many believed that this was Argentina's best chance to win the World Cup since 1986. The pressure to perform was immense, not only from the fans but also from within the team itself. Argentina's rich footballing history weighs heavily on each generation of players, and the desire to emulate past glories is a constant motivation. The media played a significant role in shaping these expectations, often portraying Argentina as one of the favorites to lift the trophy. This created a sense of both excitement and anxiety among the players, who were acutely aware of the nation's hopes resting on their shoulders. Managing these expectations became a critical task for the coaching staff, who sought to shield the players from excessive pressure and focus on their preparation. The team's ability to handle these expectations would ultimately determine their success in the tournament.

The Squad

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here’s the complete list of the Argentina squad for the 2014 World Cup, position by position. Each player brought something unique to the table, and their collective performance defined Argentina's journey in the tournament.

Goalkeepers

Sergio Romero: The undisputed number one, Romero was crucial with his shot-stopping abilities. His presence in goal provided a sense of security for the team.
Mariano Andújar: A reliable backup, Andújar provided valuable experience and support to Romero.
Agustín Orion: Completing the goalkeeping trio, Orion was ready to step in if needed.

The goalkeeping department was a blend of experience and reliability, with Sergio Romero as the undisputed number one. His performances throughout the tournament were crucial to Argentina's success, showcasing his shot-stopping abilities and commanding presence in the penalty area. Romero's confidence in goal instilled a sense of security in the team, allowing the defenders to play with greater assurance. Backing him up were Mariano Andújar and Agustín Orion, both seasoned professionals who brought valuable experience to the squad. While they may not have seen any game time, their presence in training and the dressing room contributed to the overall team spirit and preparedness. The goalkeeping trio worked closely together, pushing each other to improve and ensuring that Argentina had a solid foundation upon which to build their campaign. Their collective focus and dedication exemplified the professionalism that characterized the entire squad. The goalkeepers understood their roles perfectly, and their unity was a testament to the team's cohesive atmosphere. Each member of the trio was prepared to step in if needed, highlighting the depth and quality that Argentina possessed in this crucial position. Their contributions, both on and off the field, were essential to Argentina's journey in the 2014 World Cup.

Defenders

The defensive lineup was a mix of experience and emerging talent, tasked with protecting Argentina's goal and providing a solid foundation for the team's attacking players to thrive. The defenders played a crucial role in Argentina's tactical setup, contributing not only to the team's defensive stability but also to their ability to transition from defense to attack. The backline was built around a core of experienced players who had been together for several years, fostering a sense of understanding and cohesion. The full-backs provided width and attacking impetus, while the center-backs were responsible for organizing the defense and dealing with aerial threats. The defenders also had to be adept at playing out from the back, contributing to Argentina's possession-based style of play. Their ability to read the game, anticipate danger, and make timely interventions was crucial to Argentina's success in the tournament. The defensive unit worked closely together, communicating effectively and supporting each other in challenging situations. Their resilience and determination were evident in every match, as they battled tirelessly to protect their goal and keep Argentina in the game. The defenders were a vital component of Argentina's squad, and their contributions were essential to the team's overall performance.

Pablo Zabaleta: A tireless worker at right-back, Zabaleta was known for his defensive solidity and overlapping runs.
Ezequiel Garay: A rock in central defense, Garay's aerial ability and tackling were vital.
Federico Fernández: Another solid center-back, Fernández provided depth and reliability.
Marcos Rojo: Playing at left-back, Rojo's energy and attacking intent were a key asset.
Martín Demichelis: An experienced head in the defense, Demichelis brought leadership and composure.
Hugo Campagnaro: A versatile defender, Campagnaro could play in multiple positions.
José María Basanta: Completing the defensive options, Basanta was a dependable player.

Midfielders

The midfield was the engine room of the team, responsible for controlling the tempo of the game, winning back possession, and providing creative support to the forwards. The midfielders had to be versatile and adaptable, capable of playing in different roles and adjusting to different tactical situations. The midfield was a blend of experience and youth, with players who possessed a range of skills and attributes. Some midfielders were primarily focused on defensive duties, shielding the backline and breaking up opposition attacks. Others were more attack-minded, tasked with creating scoring opportunities and linking up with the forwards. The midfielders also had to be disciplined and organized, maintaining their shape and working together to control the flow of the game. Their ability to pass accurately, tackle effectively, and make intelligent decisions was crucial to Argentina's success. The midfield was the heart of the team, and their performance often dictated the outcome of matches. They were the link between defense and attack, and their contributions were essential to Argentina's overall game plan. The midfielders' tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment exemplified the team's spirit and determination.

Javier Mascherano: The midfield general, Mascherano's leadership and tackling were legendary.
Fernando Gago: A creative midfielder, Gago's passing range was a valuable asset.
Ángel Di María: A dynamic player, Di María's pace and dribbling skills were crucial.
Lucas Biglia: A reliable presence in midfield, Biglia provided stability and composure.
Maxi Rodríguez: An experienced campaigner, Rodríguez offered versatility and tactical awareness.
Ricardo Álvarez: A skillful midfielder, Álvarez added creativity to the squad.
Enzo Pérez: A hard-working player, Pérez was known for his energy and commitment.
Augusto Fernández: Completing the midfield options, Fernández was a solid and dependable player.

Forwards

Ah, the forwards! This is where the magic happened. With some of the best attacking talents in the world, Argentina's forward line was capable of unlocking any defense. The forwards were the stars of the show, responsible for scoring goals and creating scoring opportunities. The forward line was built around a core of world-class players who possessed exceptional skill, pace, and finishing ability. They were supported by creative midfielders who provided them with the ammunition to wreak havoc on opposition defenses. The forwards had to be clinical in front of goal, taking their chances and converting them into goals. They also had to be adept at linking up with each other, creating space and opportunities for their teammates. The forwards' ability to stretch defenses, run in behind, and dribble past defenders was crucial to Argentina's attacking threat. Their performance often dictated the outcome of matches, and they were the focal point of Argentina's attacking play. The forwards were a source of inspiration for the team and the fans, and their goals were celebrated with passion and fervor. Their contributions were essential to Argentina's success in the tournament.

Lionel Messi: Arguably the greatest player of all time, Messi was the heart and soul of the team. His dribbling, passing, and goal-scoring ability were unmatched.
Gonzalo Higuaín: A prolific striker, Higuaín's movement and finishing were crucial.
Sergio Agüero: Another world-class striker, Agüero's pace and skill made him a constant threat.
Ezequiel Lavezzi: A hard-working forward, Lavezzi's energy and commitment were valuable assets.
Rodrigo Palacio: Completing the forward options, Palacio was a versatile and experienced player.

The Coach: Alejandro Sabella

Alejandro Sabella was the man at the helm, guiding the team through the tournament. His tactical approach and man-management skills were crucial to Argentina's success. Sabella's leadership style was characterized by his calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and ability to connect with his players on a personal level. He fostered a sense of unity and purpose within the squad, instilling in them the belief that they could achieve greatness. Sabella's tactical approach was pragmatic, focusing on building a solid defensive foundation and then unleashing the team's attacking talent. He was not afraid to make bold decisions, and his substitutions often proved to be game-changing. Sabella's man-management skills were also exceptional, as he was able to get the best out of his players by understanding their individual strengths and weaknesses. He created a positive and supportive environment, where players felt valued and motivated. Sabella's contributions to Argentina's success in the 2014 World Cup cannot be overstated, as he was the driving force behind their memorable campaign.

Argentina's World Cup Journey

Argentina's journey in the 2014 World Cup was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with highs and lows, moments of brilliance, and heartbreaking defeats. From their opening group stage matches to their dramatic final against Germany, Argentina captivated the world with their passion, skill, and determination. The team faced numerous challenges along the way, including injuries, suspensions, and tactical adjustments. However, they persevered through it all, demonstrating their resilience and unwavering commitment to each other. Argentina's journey was a testament to their collective spirit and the leadership of their captain, Lionel Messi. They played with heart and soul, giving everything they had on the pitch. While they ultimately fell short of their ultimate goal, Argentina's performance in the 2014 World Cup will be remembered as a proud chapter in their footballing history.

Group Stage

Argentina navigated the group stage with relative ease, securing three wins out of three matches. However, their performances were not always convincing, and there were moments of vulnerability that raised concerns about their ability to compete against the top teams. Argentina's attacking talent was on full display, as they scored six goals in the group stage. However, their defensive solidity was tested, and they conceded three goals, highlighting the need for improvement. The group stage provided valuable opportunities for the team to fine-tune their tactics and build momentum for the knockout stages. It also allowed coach Alejandro Sabella to experiment with different formations and personnel, seeking to find the optimal balance between attack and defense. Argentina's successful progression through the group stage instilled confidence in the team and set the stage for their subsequent performances.

Knockout Stages

The knockout stages were a true test of Argentina's mettle, as they faced a series of tough opponents in closely contested matches. Argentina's resilience and determination were on full display, as they battled their way through extra time and penalty shootouts. The team's defensive solidity was crucial during this stage, as they conceded only one goal in four matches. Argentina's attacking players also rose to the occasion, scoring decisive goals that propelled the team forward. The knockout stages were filled with drama and excitement, as Argentina overcame each challenge with grit and determination. Their journey to the final was a testament to their collective spirit and the leadership of their captain, Lionel Messi. Argentina's performances in the knockout stages will be remembered as some of the most memorable moments in their World Cup history.

The Final

The final against Germany was a heart-wrenching affair, with Argentina ultimately losing in extra time. Despite the defeat, Argentina's performance was commendable, as they pushed Germany to the limit and came agonizingly close to lifting the trophy. Argentina's defensive organization was excellent, frustrating Germany's attacking efforts for much of the match. The team also created several scoring opportunities, but they were unable to convert them into goals. The final was a tense and tactical battle, with both teams giving their all. Argentina's players left everything on the pitch, demonstrating their passion and commitment to their country. While the defeat was devastating, Argentina's journey to the final was a remarkable achievement, and they can be proud of their performance in the tournament. The final will be remembered as a classic encounter, showcasing the intensity and drama of World Cup football.

Where Are They Now?

It's been a few years since that World Cup, so you might be wondering what happened to these players. Some have retired, some are still playing at the highest level, and others have taken on new roles in the footballing world. It's always interesting to see how careers evolve after such a significant event. Many of these players have continued to represent their clubs and countries with distinction, while others have transitioned into coaching or punditry. Their experiences in the 2014 World Cup have undoubtedly shaped their careers and provided them with valuable lessons that they can pass on to future generations. The legacy of this Argentina squad lives on, inspiring young players to dream big and strive for greatness. Their contributions to the sport will be remembered for years to come, as they continue to make an impact on the world of football.

So there you have it – a trip down memory lane to revisit Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad. It was a team full of talent, passion, and near glory. Hope you enjoyed the ride! Let me know in the comments which player was your favorite from that squad. Cheers!