If you ask an Argentine fan about their biggest rivals, they’ll probably mention Brazil. Or maybe England. Honestly, they might even say Uruguay or Germany before they get to Mexico. But if you ask a Mexican fan? That’s a whole different story. For El Tri supporters, the mexico national football team vs argentina national football team matchup is a recurring nightmare that they just can't wake up from. It is a rivalry built on lopsided stats, World Cup heartbreak, and a massive gap in how each side views the other.
Let's be real. It’s a "rivalry" in the way a hammer has a rivalry with a nail.
Across 32 official meetings, the numbers are pretty brutal for Mexico. Argentina has won 16 of those games. Mexico has only managed four wins. Twelve matches ended in draws. If you're doing the math, that means Mexico hasn't beaten the Albiceleste in over 20 years. Their last victory was a 1-0 win back in the 2004 Copa América. Since then? It’s been a sea of blue and white celebrations.
The World Cup Curse That Won't Die
The stage where this hurts the most is the FIFA World Cup. Argentina has faced Mexico four times in the tournament's history. The result? Argentina 4, Mexico 0.
Most people remember the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Mexico actually played a decent first half, keeping things tight and frustrating Lionel Messi. Then, in the 64th minute, Messi found an inch of space outside the box. One low strike into the corner later, and Mexico’s tournament was basically over. Enzo Fernández added a second late on to seal the 2-0 win.
But Qatar wasn't the first time.
Go back to 2006 in Germany. That was arguably the best Mexico team in a generation. They took the lead through Rafa Márquez, only for Hernán Crespo to equalize. Then came the 98th minute. Maxi Rodríguez chest-trapped a cross and lashed a left-footed volley into the top corner from an impossible angle. It was voted the goal of the tournament. For Mexicans, it was just another "ya merito" (almost) moment.
Then came 2010 in South Africa. Same round, same opponent. This time, it was a 3-1 thumping. Carlos Tevez scored a controversial opener that was clearly offside, but in this matchup, the luck always seems to tilt toward the South Americans.
Recent Encounters and Youth Shocks
Interestingly, while the senior teams haven't met much since Qatar, the youth levels have been busy. Just recently, in November 2025, Mexico actually grabbed a rare bit of revenge in a U-17 clash. It was a chaotic 2-2 draw that went to penalties, and Mexico’s youngsters actually held their nerve to win 5-4. Luis Gamboa was the hero that night with two goals.
Does it make up for the senior team's struggles? Kinda. But not really.
In October 2025, the U-20 sides met in the World Cup in Chile. Argentina won that one 2-0, with goals from Carrizo and Silvetti. It felt like business as usual. Even at the youth level, the tactical discipline of the Argentines seems to act as a ceiling that Mexico just can’t break through.
Why Does Argentina Always Win?
It isn't just about Messi, though having the greatest player ever obviously helps. There’s a psychological barrier here. Former Mexican manager Miguel Herrera and even players like Raúl Jiménez have downplayed the "rivalry" because, well, you have to win games for it to be a real rivalry.
Argentina has a way of playing "control football." They wait for Mexico to make that one inevitable mistake. Whether it's a misplaced pass in midfield or a lapse in marking on a set-piece, Argentina pounces. Mexico, conversely, often looks like they’re trying too hard. They play with a desperation that leads to fatigue and cards.
Look at the stats:
- Total Meetings: 32
- Argentina Wins: 16
- Draws: 12
- Mexico Wins: 4
- Last Mexico Win: July 10, 2004 (1-0)
Since 2015, Mexico hasn't even scored a goal against the Argentine senior team. That is a decade of silence.
The Copa América Connection
If there is a "birthplace" for the modern tension, it’s the 1993 Copa América final. Mexico was the invited guest and they actually made it to the final. It was a huge deal. They faced an Argentina side led by Gabriel Batistuta. "Batigol" scored twice, Argentina won 2-1, and Mexico was left as the bridesmaid.
That tournament proved Mexico could compete with the giants, but it also established the hierarchy. Argentina wins the trophies (they have 16 Copa Américas now); Mexico gets the "respect."
What to Expect Next
The mexico national football team vs argentina national football team dynamic isn't changing overnight. Mexico is currently in a massive rebuilding phase under Javier Aguirre (his third stint!). They’re trying to find a new identity before they co-host the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, Argentina is the reigning world and continental champion. They are at the summit of the sport.
If these two meet in the 2026 World Cup, expect the same electric atmosphere. The fans in Qatar nearly started a riot outside the stadium before the match. It's heated. It's personal. But until Mexico finds a way to score—and more importantly, a way to keep a clean sheet for 90 minutes—this "rivalry" will remain a one-sided history lesson.
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What you should do next:
If you're looking to see how Mexico stacks up before the next big tournament, keep an eye on their upcoming friendlies against top-ten CONMEBOL sides. Specifically, watch their defensive shape. If they continue to play a high line against teams with elite transition speed (like Argentina), they'll keep getting punished the same way they have for the last 20 years.