Argentina's 2014 World Cup Squad: A Look Back

Oct 30, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 46 views

Ah, the 2014 World Cup! A tournament filled with drama, excitement, and heartbreak for Argentina. It feels like just yesterday we were all glued to our screens, watching Messi and the boys battle it out on the world stage. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the Argentina 2014 squad, remembering the players who brought us so much joy (and nail-biting tension!). This was a team brimming with talent, a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging stars all united with one goal: to bring the World Cup trophy back to Argentina. And boy, did they come close! This article isn't just a list of names; it's a journey through the hopes, dreams, and near-triumphs of a team that captured the hearts of a nation. So, buckle up, grab your mate, and let’s dive into the epic saga of Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad!

The Goalkeepers: Guardians of the Net

Every great team needs a reliable last line of defense, and Argentina's goalkeeping department in 2014 was certainly up to the task. Let's check out the shot-stoppers who were ready to protect the Argentinian goal:

Sergio Romero: The undisputed number one, Romero's performances throughout the tournament were nothing short of stellar. His penalty shootout heroics against the Netherlands in the semi-final cemented his place in Argentinian football folklore. Romero's agility, reflexes, and commanding presence in the box were crucial to Argentina's journey to the final. His ability to make crucial saves at critical moments kept Argentina in games and inspired confidence throughout the team. Beyond his shot-stopping abilities, Romero was also a calming influence in the back, organizing his defense and providing a sense of security. He was the rock upon which Argentina's defensive efforts were built, and his contributions were invaluable to the team's success. Romero's performances in the 2014 World Cup showcased his talent on the global stage, earning him the respect of fans and pundits alike.
Mariano Andújar: A seasoned veteran, Andújar provided valuable experience and backup to Romero. While he didn't feature in any matches, his presence in the squad was important for maintaining a competitive goalkeeping environment. Andújar's professionalism and dedication to the team were commendable, and he was always ready to step in if needed. He served as a mentor to the younger players in the squad, sharing his knowledge and experience to help them develop. Andújar's role may have been behind the scenes, but his contribution to the team's overall success was undeniable. He was a true team player, always putting the needs of the squad ahead of his own.
Agustín Orion: Completing the goalkeeping trio, Orion offered another experienced option for then coach Alejandro Sabella. Like Andújar, Orion didn't see any game time, but his inclusion in the squad demonstrated the depth of Argentina's goalkeeping resources. Orion's presence in the squad provided additional competition for the starting spot, pushing Romero to perform at his best. He was a respected figure in the Argentinian football community, known for his leadership qualities and his commitment to the game. Orion's experience and professionalism were valuable assets to the team, and he played an important role in maintaining a positive atmosphere within the squad.

The Defenders: The Wall of Argentina

A solid defense is the foundation of any successful team, and Argentina's defensive unit in 2014 was a well-organized and resilient bunch. Let's break down the key defenders who formed the Argentinian wall:

Pablo Zabaleta: The tireless right-back, Zabaleta was a machine on the flank, providing relentless energy both defensively and offensively. His commitment and work rate were second to none, and he was a vital cog in Argentina's defensive setup. Zabaleta's ability to track back and make crucial tackles was essential to preventing opposition attacks. He was also a threat going forward, providing width and delivering dangerous crosses into the box. Zabaleta's versatility and stamina made him an invaluable asset to the team, and he was a consistent performer throughout the tournament. His passion and determination were infectious, inspiring his teammates to give their all on the pitch. Zabaleta's contributions to Argentina's success in 2014 cannot be overstated.
Ezequiel Garay: A rock at the heart of the defense, Garay's aerial prowess and tackling ability made him a formidable opponent for any striker. His partnership with Federico Fernández provided a solid foundation for Argentina's defensive efforts. Garay's ability to read the game and anticipate opposition attacks was crucial to Argentina's defensive stability. He was also a threat from set-pieces, using his height and strength to win headers in the box. Garay's composure and leadership qualities made him a key figure in the Argentinian defense, and he was a consistent performer throughout the tournament. His presence in the backline provided a sense of security and confidence to the rest of the team.
Federico Fernández: Partnering Garay in central defense, Fernández brought composure and aerial ability to the Argentinian backline. His partnership with Garay was a key factor in Argentina's defensive solidity throughout the tournament. Fernández's ability to win aerial duels and make timely interceptions was crucial to preventing opposition attacks. He was also a calm and composed presence on the ball, distributing passes effectively from the back. Fernández's partnership with Garay provided a solid foundation for Argentina's defensive efforts, and he was a consistent performer throughout the tournament. His contributions to the team's success were often overlooked, but his importance to the defensive unit was undeniable.
Marcos Rojo: The energetic left-back, Rojo's attacking instincts and defensive capabilities made him a valuable asset on the left flank. His performances throughout the tournament showcased his versatility and potential. Rojo's ability to get forward and deliver crosses into the box added an extra dimension to Argentina's attack. He was also a solid defender, making important tackles and interceptions to prevent opposition attacks. Rojo's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His performances in the 2014 World Cup established him as a key player for Argentina, and he continued to represent his country with pride in subsequent tournaments.
Martín Demichelis: An experienced center-back, Demichelis provided valuable leadership and stability to the Argentinian defense. His experience and composure were crucial in guiding the team through difficult moments. Demichelis's ability to read the game and anticipate opposition attacks was essential to Argentina's defensive solidity. He was also a vocal leader on the pitch, organizing his teammates and providing guidance. Demichelis's experience and leadership were invaluable to the team, and he played an important role in Argentina's success in 2014. His presence in the backline provided a sense of security and confidence to the rest of the team.
José María Basanta: A reliable defender, Basanta provided cover and versatility to the Argentinian backline. While he didn't feature prominently, his presence in the squad added depth and experience. Basanta's ability to play in multiple defensive positions made him a valuable asset to the team. He was a strong and physical defender, capable of winning tackles and aerial duels. Basanta's professionalism and dedication to the team were commendable, and he was always ready to step in if needed. His role may have been behind the scenes, but his contribution to the team's overall success was undeniable.
Hugo Campagnaro: An experienced defender known for his versatility, Campagnaro offered another option for Sabella in defense. His experience and tactical awareness were valuable assets to the team. Campagnaro's ability to play in multiple defensive positions made him a valuable asset to the team. He was a strong and physical defender, capable of winning tackles and aerial duels. Campagnaro's professionalism and dedication to the team were commendable, and he was always ready to step in if needed. His role may have been behind the scenes, but his contribution to the team's overall success was undeniable.

The Midfielders: The Engine Room

The midfield is where games are won and lost, and Argentina's midfield in 2014 was a blend of creativity, energy, and tactical discipline. Let's delve into the midfielders who orchestrated Argentina's play:

Javier Mascherano: The heart and soul of the team, Mascherano's tireless tackling, interceptions, and leadership were crucial to Argentina's success. He was the ultimate warrior, putting his body on the line for his country time and time again. Mascherano's ability to break up opposition attacks and win back possession was essential to Argentina's defensive stability. He was also a vocal leader on the pitch, organizing his teammates and inspiring them to give their all. Mascherano's commitment and passion were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite. His performances in the 2014 World Cup cemented his legacy as one of Argentina's greatest ever players.
Fernando Gago: A technically gifted midfielder, Gago's passing range and vision were crucial to Argentina's build-up play. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities made him a valuable asset in midfield. Gago's passing accuracy and vision allowed Argentina to control possession and dictate the flow of the game. He was also a strong tackler, capable of winning back possession and breaking up opposition attacks. Gago's technical ability and tactical awareness made him a key figure in the Argentinian midfield.
Ángel Di María: A dynamic winger and midfielder, Di María's pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. His injury in the quarter-final against Belgium was a major blow to Argentina's chances. Di María's ability to beat defenders and create scoring opportunities was crucial to Argentina's attacking threat. He was also a hard worker, tracking back to defend and contributing to the team's overall effort. Di María's pace and skill made him a nightmare for defenders, and he was a consistent performer throughout the tournament.
Lucas Biglia: A steady and reliable midfielder, Biglia provided balance and composure to the Argentinian midfield. His ability to win tackles, intercept passes, and distribute the ball effectively made him a valuable asset. Biglia's defensive work rate and tactical awareness were essential to Argentina's midfield solidity. He was also a calm and composed presence on the ball, distributing passes effectively and maintaining possession. Biglia's contributions to the team were often overlooked, but his importance to the midfield unit was undeniable.
Enzo Pérez: A versatile midfielder, Pérez provided energy and work rate to the Argentinian midfield. His ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the squad. Pérez's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite. He was a hard worker, tracking back to defend and contributing to the team's overall effort. Pérez's versatility and work rate made him a valuable asset to the team, and he was a consistent performer whenever called upon.
Maxi Rodríguez: An experienced midfielder and winger, Rodríguez brought creativity and goal-scoring ability to the Argentinian squad. His experience and versatility were valuable assets to the team. Rodríguez's ability to score goals from midfield made him a valuable asset in attack. He was also a creative player, capable of unlocking opposition defenses with his passing and dribbling. Rodríguez's experience and versatility made him a valuable asset to the team, and he was a popular figure among the fans.
Ricardo Álvarez: A creative midfielder, Álvarez provided flair and attacking impetus to the Argentinian squad. His ability to dribble and create scoring opportunities made him a valuable asset in attack. Álvarez's creativity and flair added an extra dimension to Argentina's attacking play. He was also a hard worker, tracking back to defend and contributing to the team's overall effort. Álvarez's talent and potential were evident, and he was a valuable member of the Argentinian squad.

The Forwards: The Attack

Of course, what would a football team be without its forwards? Argentina had some amazing ones, let's check them out!

Lionel Messi: Arguably the greatest player of all time, Messi was the talisman of the Argentinian team. His dribbling, goal-scoring, and playmaking abilities were simply mesmerizing. While he didn't reach his usual sky-high standards, he still produced moments of magic that captivated the world. Messi's ability to beat defenders and create scoring opportunities was unparalleled. He was also a selfless player, always looking to set up his teammates and contribute to the team's overall effort. Messi's presence in the team inspired his teammates to raise their game, and he was a constant threat to opposition defenses. Despite the disappointment of losing the final, Messi's performances in the 2014 World Cup cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.
Gonzalo Higuaín: A prolific striker, Higuaín's goal-scoring ability and link-up play were crucial to Argentina's attacking efforts. While he missed some key chances, his overall contribution to the team was significant. Higuaín's ability to find space in the box and finish chances made him a valuable asset in attack. He was also a strong and physical player, capable of holding up the ball and bringing his teammates into play. Higuaín's goal-scoring record speaks for itself, and he was a consistent performer for Argentina throughout his career.
Sergio Agüero: Another world-class striker, Agüero's pace, dribbling, and finishing ability made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. His injury problems limited his impact on the tournament, but he still provided moments of brilliance. Agüero's pace and skill made him a nightmare for defenders. He was also a clinical finisher, capable of scoring goals from any angle. Agüero's talent and potential were undeniable, and he was a valuable member of the Argentinian squad.
Ezequiel Lavezzi: A hard-working forward, Lavezzi provided energy and dynamism to the Argentinian attack. His versatility and work rate made him a valuable asset to the team. Lavezzi's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he quickly became a fan favorite. He was a hard worker, tracking back to defend and contributing to the team's overall effort. Lavezzi's versatility and work rate made him a valuable asset to the team, and he was a consistent performer whenever called upon.
Rodrigo Palacio: A versatile forward, Palacio provided experience and tactical flexibility to the Argentinian squad. His ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the team. Palacio's experience and tactical awareness were valuable assets to the team. He was a hard worker, tracking back to defend and contributing to the team's overall effort. Palacio's versatility and experience made him a valuable asset to the team, and he was a popular figure among the fans.

The Coach: Alejandro Sabella

Alejandro Sabella was the man in charge of guiding this talented squad. His tactical approach, often pragmatic, focused on defensive solidity and maximizing the attacking potential of players like Messi and Di María. Sabella's leadership and tactical acumen were crucial to Argentina's success in reaching the final. He instilled a sense of discipline and organization in the team, while also giving his players the freedom to express themselves on the pitch. Sabella's ability to get the best out of his players was a key factor in Argentina's success, and he deserves credit for leading the team to the final. Despite the disappointment of losing the final, Sabella's legacy as a successful coach will endure.

Final Thoughts

The Argentina 2014 World Cup squad was a special group of players who came agonizingly close to achieving their ultimate dream. While they ultimately fell short in the final, their journey was filled with memorable moments and performances that will live long in the memory of Argentinian football fans. This team, with its blend of star power and grit, captured the imagination of a nation and reminded us all of the passion and beauty of the beautiful game. They may not have lifted the trophy, but they certainly lifted our spirits and gave us a World Cup to remember! So, here's to the Argentina 2014 squad – forever in our hearts!