The coincidences that have Argentina fans dreaming of 2022 World Cup glory

A series of coincidences at this World Cup tally up with those that Argentina won the World Cup in 1978 and 1986.

Two of the most used phrases by Argentinian fans currently are “Anulo Mufa” (I cancel the jinx) and the other is “Elijo Creer” (I choose to believe). Albiceleste supporters have been looking for coincidences or similarities to to other World Cups where Argentina won the trophy (1978 and 1986) and have discovered these sources of motivation.

Australia, eliminated by the champions in 2006:

The side from Oceania who now play in the AFC Confederation have only progressed from the group stage once and that was in 2006. They were eliminated from the German World Cup by Italy, who were later crowned champions. In 2022 Argentina saw off the Socceroos in the Round of 16...

Canada and Morocco, from ‘86 to 2022:

Canada’s last World Cup appearance was in 1986 when Argentina were crowned and in Mexico the Maple Leafs lost all three matches. Morocco have only progressed from the group stage twice ...in 1986 and 2022.

Spain’s route to World Cup winners in South Africa 2010:

No-one expected Argentina to lose to Saudi Arabia in the Albiceleste’s 2022 World Cup debut but many have cited Spain’s path to World Cup glory in 2010 after Vicente del Bosque’s side lost their opening game (1-0 to Switzerland) and went onto be crowned winners after a 1-0 over Netherlands in Johannesburg.

Brazil spot kick elimination in ‘86 and 2022:

The last time the ‘Seleçao’ were knocked out on penalties came back in 1986 after a 1-1 draw against France in the quarter-final. Brazil lost on penalty kicks as they did this time round falling to Croatia as a penalty shoot-out decided who progressed to the semi-final stage.