Arriving as defending champions, Argentina carried the weight of their 1978 triumph into 1982. Under César Luis Menotti, they set out to do what so few ever manage win it twice in a row.
Reaching the second group stage was an achievement for Argentina, who found the competition at that level fierce and unforgiving. With 8 goals in 5 games, they carried a consistent attacking threat throughout.
Arriving as defending champions, Argentina endured a difficult group stage, unable to advance despite moments of resistance. Their campaign featured a narrow 0-1 loss to Belgium, a commanding 4-1 victory over Hungary, a 2-0 win over El Salvador, a narrow 1-2 loss to Italy, and a 1-3 defeat against Brazil. Despite competing with determination in the second first round, Argentina's journey ended before the final.
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Advanced to the second group stage.
Diego Maradona led Argentina's attack with 2 goals at the 1982 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Passarella and Bertoni, all with 2.
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1.8per match
2 red cards across the tournament Gallego booked twice.
The tactical mind behind Argentina's 1982 campaign. At the helm since the 1978 World Cup 12 World Cup matches managed in total.
Menotti employed an attacking 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing speed and skill. The team showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency against top-class opponents like Brazil and Italy.
