Coach Miguel Herrera makes reality check on Mexico’s rivalry with Lionel Messi’s Argentina
Mexico and Argentina have faced off many times on the international stage, producing tense matches and heated exchanges between fans in a growing Latin American soccer storyline. With El Tri set to meet Lionel Messi’s side in just a few months, former Mexico coach Miguel Herrera has offered a blunt reality check on the supposed rivalry between the two nations.
Now in charge of Costa Rica national team, Herrera played a key role in Mexico’s road to the 2014 World Cup, leading them through a playoff win over New Zealand before their controversial round-of-16 exit. But since their last meeting at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, talk of a rivalry between Argentina and Mexico has only intensified.
Speaking with YouTuber Rodrigo Rea, “El Piojo” made his stance clear: “The rivalry between Mexico and Argentina… let’s be honest. That rivalry grew because we want to beat them, because they’re a world power. They don’t even look our way; that’s the reality, and I’m not going to fool anyone. Argentina is focused on beating Brazil, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Spain…“
Herrera also delivered a blunt assessment of where Mexico stands. “We’re a step below: we haven’t even managed to reach a World Cup semifinal. We’re going to compete against any team, but not to the point that it has turned into a rivalry,” he stated.
Dismissing Argentina as Mexico’s main rival, “El Piojo” pointed to a more traditional foe: “The rivalry we have is with the United States. That’s a clásico, because of the region. But Argentina is one step above, and we have to be honest about that.”
Jus a few days ago, Argentina confirmed they will face Mexico in a friendly during the October international break, between the 6th and 14th in Chicago. While fans will see another chapter in the matchup, Herrera insists it’s far from being a genuine rivalry.
Argentina holds the upper hand over Mexico
Argentina and Mexico have shared plenty of memorable moments, ranking among the non-confederation teams that have faced each other the most. But history shows La Albiceleste with a clear advantage.
Since their first meeting at the 1930 World Cup, Argentina has posted 16 wins in 32 matches, with Mexico managing just four victories and 12 draws. The goal tally is similarly lopsided: 53 for Argentina and 28 for El Tri. Adding to Mexico’s frustration, their last win over Argentina came in the 2004 Copa América, more than 20 years ago.