When did Argentina win the World Cup? Answered as Leo Messi could make history

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Naturally: the question on several football fans’ minds is: when did Argentina win the World Cup?

As Lionel Messi is on the brink of immortality in a much-awaited clash against France on Sunday, here’s the answer.

Argentina have won the World Cup twice

1986

The last time Argentina won the World Cup was in 1986, spearheaded by the virtually invincible Diego Maradona.

While La Albiceleste were not blessed with a team full of superstars, Maradona’s genius proved enough to steer his nation to glory.

In the final, Argentina beat a top West Germany side 3-2 to win their 2^nd ever World Cup.

However, the game which is still talked about to this day is the Argentines’ controversial 2-0 quarter-final win against England.

Maradona opened the scoring in controversial fashion by seemingly deliberately striking the ball with his hand.

As the referee adjudged the goal as fair, the famous “Hand of God” goal became synonymous with the great man.

However, the legendary attacker showcased why he is hailed as arguably the greatest player of all time just four minutes later.

Picking up the ball in the middle of the park, Maradona made a mockery of the English defenders by leaving each and every one of them for dead before passing the ball into the back of the net.

1978

In 1978, Argentina won their first ever World Cup.

Meeting a brilliant Netherlands side in the past, the iconic Mario Kempes stole the show with a brilliant brace in a game that ended 3-1.

Interestingly enough, the game was tied at 1-1 after 90 minutes.

However, Kempes and Daniel Bertoi both got on the scoresheet in extra time to make history in storied fashion.

Perhaps the standout feature of this Argentine side was the attractive brand of football they played under manager Cesar Luis Menotti.

Menotti was hailed for being an advocate for the beautiful game and that was certainly on show in 1978.

The next time someone asks you when did Argentina win the World Cup, you would hope to say 2022 as every football fan aches for the selfless Lionel Messi (via City Xtra) to lift the trophy against France.