Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni during a training session ahead of the World Cup. | Photo Credit: AP

Lionel Scaloni has been at the helm for Argentina since 2018. Besides taking Argentina to two Copa America titles and a World Cup, he has managed to create a battle-tested group of players.

For all its attacking flair, Argentina under Scaloni has not compromised on defence. Argentina kept the second-most clean sheets through South America’s qualification and it will be tough to beat at the World Cup.

Scaloni tested his team’s depth across multiple set-ups through the World Cup qualification cycle, including 4-4-2, 4-3-3, and 4-2-3-1.

The 48-year-old has had no major reasons to tinker with his midfield and defence, which will bear a similar look to the 2022 team.

In North America, Scaloni will have the chance to become only the second coach to win two FIFA World Cups, after Italy’s Vittorio Pozzo (1934 and 1938).

Lionel Scaloni’s record as head coach:

• Matches: 96
• Wins: 69
• Draws: 18
• Losses: 9
• Win percentage: 71.88

Scaloni has only coached Argentina at the senior level.

What did Lionel Scaloni say before the World Cup?

“Being world champions guarantees us nothing. We have to keep competing the same way and prove again what we’ve achieved. We want to continue competing with the same mentality and keep showing up when it matters.

“We’re doing well and staying calm. We’re confident and know we’ve arrived in very good form. We already have the experience from 2022, and we know the first match is important, but it’s not decisive.”

Published on Jun 16, 2026