Argentine Soccer Legends: Argentina has always been strong in soccer, producing many legendary players known for their skill, hard work, and love for the game. From the 1970s to today, Argentine soccer stars have played in stadiums worldwide, winning many titles, breaking records, and inspiring fans. These players have proudly represented their country and taken soccer to new levels.
TOP 20 Argentine Soccer Legends
In this list, we celebrate the top 20 Argentine soccer legends who helped shape the sport’s history.
1. Lionel Messi
- Date of Birth: June 24, 1987
- Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder
Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest football players ever. Since his debut in 2005, he has been Argentina’s all-time top scorer with over 110 goals in 190+ matches.
He led Argentina to win their third FIFA World Cup in 2022, earning the Golden Ball for being the best player.
In 2021, he also ended a 28-year drought by winning the Copa América and was named the tournament’s Best Player. He added another Copa América title in 2024.
Messi’s achievements also include an Olympic gold in 2008 and a FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2005. With Many individual awards like 8 Ballon d’Or, he remains a football legend.
2. Diego Maradona
- Date of Birth: October 30, 1960
- Position: Attacking Midfielder/Second Striker
Diego Maradona was an iconic footballer and the heart of Argentina’s team during his career.
His most famous moment was in the 1986 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to victory and won the Golden Ball. This tournament included his legendary “Hand of God” and “Goal of the Century” against England.
Maradona scored 34 goals in 91 games for Argentina and played in four World Cups. Despite his struggles off the field, he is remembered as a football legend and a hero in Argentina.
3. Ángel di María
- Date of Birth: February 14, 1988
- Position: Winger/Attacking Midfielder
Ángel Di María was a key player for Argentina. He was Known for his speed and creativity, and scored the winning goal in the 2021 Copa América final against Brazil and in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final.
Di María has over 130 appearances and 29 goals for Argentina, including an Olympic gold in 2008. His ability to perform in big matches has made him one of Argentina’s best wingers.
4. Sergio Agüero
- Date of Birth: June 2, 1988
- Position: Striker
Sergio Agüero, one of Argentina’s top strikers, played from 2006 to 2021, scoring 41 goals in 101 games. He played a big role in winning the 2021 Copa América.
Agüero won an Olympic gold in 2008 and two U-20 World Cups in 2005 and 2007. He was key to Argentina’s success in international tournaments.
5. Javier Zanetti
- Date of Birth: August 10, 1973
- Position: Right-Back/Defensive Midfielder
Javier Zanetti, nicknamed “El Pupi,” is one of Argentina’s most respected defenders. He played 145 matches from 1994 to 2011, making him the second most-capped Argentine player.
Zanetti was known for his consistency and leadership. Although he didn’t win a major international title, he played in two World Cups and five Copa América tournaments, finishing as runner-up twice. His professionalism made him a role model for many players.
6. Hernán Crespo
- Date of Birth: July 5, 1975
- Position: Striker
Hernán Crespo was a reliable striker for Argentina, scoring 35 goals in 64 matches between 1995 and 2007. He played in three World Cups and two Copa América tournaments, finishing as runner-up in 2007.
Although he didn’t win a major trophy, his goal-scoring talent ensured his place among Argentina’s top forwards.
7. Juan Román Riquelme
- Date of Birth: June 24, 1978
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
Juan Román Riquelme was a brilliant playmaker known for his vision and skills. He played 51 matches for Argentina, scoring 17 goals and assisting many more.
He helped Argentina win gold at the 2008 Olympics and reach the Copa América final in 2007. His creativity and elegance on the field made him a beloved figure in Argentine football.
8. Javier Mascherano
- Date of Birth: June 8, 1984
- Position: Defensive Midfielder/Center-Back
Javier Mascherano was a tough and intelligent midfielder who earned 147 caps for Argentina, a record until Messi surpassed it.
He played in four World Cups, including the 2014 final, and five Copa América tournaments. Though he didn’t win a senior title, his dedication and defensive skills made him a key player for Argentina.
9. Mario Kempes
- Date of Birth: July 15, 1954
- Position: Striker
Mario Kempes is remembered for his performance in the 1978 FIFA World Cup, where he led Argentina to their first title. He scored six goals, including two in the final, and won the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.
Kempes scored 20 goals in 43 matches for Argentina and became a national hero for his efforts.
10. Daniel Passarella
- Date of Birth: May 25, 1953
- Position: Center-Back
Daniel Passarella was a legendary defender who captained Argentina to their first World Cup win in 1978. He scored 22 goals in 70 matches, a rare achievement for a defender.
He was Known for his leadership and scoring ability, and remains one of Argentina’s greatest players.
11. Carlos Tevez
- Date of Birth: February 5, 1984
- Position: Forward
Carlos Tevez, also called “Apache,” was a strong and lively forward who played with a lot of passion for Argentina. He scored 13 goals in 76 matches for his country between 2004 and 2015.
Tevez played in two World Cups (2006, 2010) and won a gold medal in the 2004 Olympics, where he was the top scorer.
Even though he didn’t win a major international title, his hard work and ability to perform in important moments made him a favorite among Argentina fans.
12. Paulo Dybala
- Date of Birth: November 15, 1993
- Position: Forward/Attacking Midfielder
Paulo Dybala has been a skilled forward for Argentina since 2015. He is known for his dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring ability.
Dybala played an important role in helping Argentina win the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring a crucial penalty in the final shootout against France. He also contributed to Argentina’s victories in the 2021 and 2024 Copa América tournaments.
Even though he hasn’t played as much due to strong competition, his talent and versatility have made him an important player for Argentina.
13. Emiliano Martínez
- Date of Birth: September 2, 1992
- Position: Goalkeeper
Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez became a key player for Argentina, especially in the 2021 and 2024 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup.
His incredible saves in penalty shootouts, against Colombia in the Copa América and France in the World Cup final, were crucial to Argentina’s victories.
Martínez won the Golden Glove in both tournaments, showing he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. His rise has been important for Argentina’s success.
14. Julián Álvarez
- Date of Birth: January 31, 2000
- Position: Forward
Julián Álvarez is one of Argentina’s rising stars. He played a key role in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, scoring four goals, including two in the semifinal against Croatia.
Álvarez’s speed, hard work, and goal-scoring ability make him an important player in Argentina’s attack, and he has a promising future.
He also helped Argentina win the 2024 Copa América.
15. Lautaro Martínez
- Date of Birth: August 22, 1997
- Position: Forward
Lautaro Martínez has been a consistent goal scorer for Argentina since 2018. Known for his agility and finishing, he helped Argentina win the 2021 Copa América, scoring three goals.
Lautaro was also the top scorer in the 2024 Copa América with five goals, including one in the final against Colombia. He played a key role in the 2022 World Cup, assisting in important moments.
With over 20 goals for Argentina, Lautaro is a vital part of the team’s offense.
16. Gonzalo Higuaín
- Date of Birth: December 10, 1987
- Position: Striker
Gonzalo Higuaín was a top striker for Argentina from 2009 to 2018, scoring 31 goals in 75 matches. He helped Argentina reach three finals: the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 and 2016 Copa América tournaments.
Even though Argentina didn’t win those finals, Higuaín’s important goals in qualifiers and tournaments made him a key figure in Argentine football.
17. Diego Milito
- Date of Birth: June 12, 1979
- Position: Striker
Diego Milito was a skilled forward who played for Argentina in 25 matches, scoring four goals. He represented the country in the 2010 World Cup.
Milito had more success at the club level, but his talent and intelligence made him an important option for Argentina during his time with the national team.
18. Rodrigo De Paul
- Date of Birth: May 24, 1994
- Position: Central Midfielder
Rodrigo De Paul has become an important midfielder for Argentina since 2018. He is Known for his hard work, passing, and defense.
De Paul played a big part in Argentina’s wins in the 2021, 2024 Copa América and 2022 World Cup.
His energy and ability to control the midfield have made him a key player in Argentina’s recent success.
19. Claudio Caniggia
- Date of Birth: January 9, 1967
- Position: Winger/Forward
Claudio Caniggia was an exciting and skillful winger for Argentina in the 1990s. He scored 16 goals in 50 matches, including key goals in the 1990 World Cup, helping Argentina reach the final.
Caniggia also played in the 1994 World Cup and was known for his speed and flair. He was an important player during a great period for Argentine football.
20. Nicolás Otamend
- Date of Birth: February 12, 1988
- Position: Center-Back
Nicolás Otamendi has been a strong defender for Argentina since 2009. He is Known for his strength and heading ability.
Otamendi played a key role in Argentina’s recent victories, including the 2021 and 2024 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup.
With over 100 appearances, his experience and leadership have been vital in keeping Argentina’s defense solid during their successful run.
FAQs
- What made Diego Maradona legendary?
- Maradona’s skill and leadership, especially during the 1986 World Cup, made him an icon.
- How did Lionel Messi impact soccer?
- Messi is famous for his incredible dribbling. He won the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup, 8 Ballon d’Ors, and 5 Golden Shoes. His playing style and hard work have inspired millions of fans and young players worldwide.
- Who scored the most goals for Argentina?
- Lionel Messi holds the record for most goals scored for Argentina with 112 goals.
- Who provided the most Assists for Argentina?
- Lionel Messi holds the record for the most assists for Argentina, with 62 assists.
- Who is the best Argentine player?
- Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi are often considered the best of all time.
- Are there future legends in Argentina?
- Young players like Julian Álvarez and Lautaro Martínez have the potential to become future legends in Argentina.