Argentina's 2014 World Cup Squad: The Complete List

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 52 views

The 2014 World Cup was a momentous occasion for Argentina, a team steeped in footballing history and driven by the ambition to reclaim global glory. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad was a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, all united by the dream of lifting the coveted trophy at the Maracanã Stadium. This article delves into the complete list of players who represented Argentina in that tournament, exploring their roles, contributions, and the lasting impact they had on the nation's footballing landscape.

The Argentinian Squad

The anticipation surrounding Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad was palpable. Fans around the globe were eager to see if Messi could replicate Diego Maradona's heroics and guide his team to victory. The squad was carefully constructed by coach Alejandro Sabella, who sought to create a cohesive unit capable of competing against the world's best. The final list of 23 players included:

Goalkeepers

Sergio Romero: The undisputed number one, Romero's shot-stopping ability and composure were crucial throughout the tournament. His penalty-saving heroics in the semi-final against the Netherlands cemented his place in Argentine football folklore. Romero's presence in goal provided a sense of security for the defense and allowed the team to play with confidence, knowing they had a reliable last line of defense. His experience and leadership were invaluable assets to the squad, especially in high-pressure situations. Throughout the tournament, Romero showcased his ability to make crucial saves at critical moments, earning the trust and admiration of his teammates and fans alike. His performances were a testament to his dedication and hard work, solidifying his position as one of Argentina's top goalkeepers.
Mariano Andújar: A dependable backup, Andújar provided valuable experience and support from the bench. While he didn't feature in any matches, his presence in the squad was important for maintaining team morale and providing cover in case of injury or suspension to Romero. Andújar's professionalism and commitment to the team were commendable, and he played an important role in creating a positive and supportive environment within the squad. His experience in international football was a valuable asset, and he was always ready to step in if needed. Although he didn't get the opportunity to showcase his skills on the field, his contribution to the team's overall success should not be underestimated.
Agustín Orión: Another experienced goalkeeper, Orión completed the goalkeeping trio, offering further depth and stability to the squad. Like Andújar, he didn't see any game time, but his presence was a valuable asset in training and behind the scenes. Orión's experience and knowledge of the game were invaluable to the younger players in the squad, and he provided guidance and support to Romero and Andújar. His dedication to the team was unwavering, and he played an important role in maintaining a positive and focused atmosphere within the squad. Although he didn't get the chance to play in the tournament, his contribution to the team's overall success was significant.

Defenders

Pablo Zabaleta: A tireless right-back, Zabaleta's energy and defensive prowess were vital to Argentina's backline. His ability to track back and make crucial tackles, combined with his willingness to join the attack, made him a valuable asset on both ends of the field. Zabaleta's experience playing in the English Premier League gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to anticipate and neutralize the threats posed by opposing wingers. His leadership qualities and never-say-die attitude inspired his teammates, and he was a key figure in Argentina's defensive structure. Throughout the tournament, Zabaleta consistently delivered solid performances, earning the respect of his opponents and the admiration of his fans.
Federico Fernández: A commanding center-back, Fernández provided strength and aerial ability to the defense. His partnership with Ezequiel Garay formed a solid foundation upon which Argentina built their attacks. Fernández's ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was crucial in preventing opposing teams from creating scoring opportunities. His physical presence and aerial dominance made him a formidable opponent for opposing strikers. Fernández's composure under pressure and his ability to distribute the ball effectively from the back were also valuable assets to the team. His performances throughout the tournament were consistently strong, solidifying his reputation as one of Argentina's top defenders.
Ezequiel Garay: Fernández's central defensive partner, Garay brought composure and experience to the Argentine defense. His ability to read the game and make timely interceptions was crucial in breaking up opposition attacks. Garay's partnership with Fernández was a key factor in Argentina's defensive solidity throughout the tournament. His experience playing in top European leagues gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to anticipate and neutralize the threats posed by opposing attackers. Garay's leadership qualities and his ability to communicate effectively with his teammates were also valuable assets to the team. His performances throughout the tournament were consistently strong, earning him the respect of his peers and the admiration of his fans.
Marcos Rojo: A versatile left-back, Rojo's pace and attacking instincts made him a threat down the flank. His performances throughout the tournament were impressive, solidifying his place as a key member of the squad. Rojo's ability to get forward and deliver dangerous crosses into the box added another dimension to Argentina's attack. His defensive capabilities were also crucial, as he was able to track back and make important tackles. Rojo's energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and he inspired his teammates with his never-say-die attitude. His performances throughout the tournament showcased his versatility and his ability to adapt to different tactical situations.
Martín Demichelis: An experienced center-back, Demichelis provided valuable cover and leadership to the defense. While he didn't start every game, his presence in the squad was important for maintaining team morale and providing guidance to the younger players. Demichelis's experience playing in top European leagues was a valuable asset, and he was able to provide insights and advice to his teammates. His composure under pressure and his ability to read the game were also crucial in helping the team maintain its defensive solidity. Demichelis's leadership qualities and his ability to communicate effectively with his teammates made him a valuable asset both on and off the field.
Hugo Campagnaro: A versatile defender, Campagnaro provided cover across the backline. His experience and tactical awareness were valuable assets to the squad, even though he didn't feature prominently in the tournament. Campagnaro's ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the team, as he could fill in wherever needed. His experience playing in Italian football gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to provide insights and advice to his teammates. Campagnaro's dedication to the team and his willingness to contribute in any way possible were commendable.
José María Basanta: A reliable defender, Basanta provided depth and cover in the squad. He made a few appearances, demonstrating his commitment and defensive capabilities. Basanta's versatility and his ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the team. His experience playing in Mexican football gave him a different perspective, and he was able to provide insights and advice to his teammates. Basanta's dedication to the team and his willingness to contribute in any way possible were commendable.

Midfielders

Javier Mascherano: The midfield general, Mascherano's leadership and relentless tackling were crucial to Argentina's defensive stability. His ability to read the game and break up opposition attacks was invaluable, and he was often the first line of defense for the team. Mascherano's passion and commitment were infectious, and he inspired his teammates with his never-say-die attitude. His experience playing in top European leagues gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to anticipate and neutralize the threats posed by opposing midfielders. Mascherano's performances throughout the tournament were consistently outstanding, solidifying his reputation as one of Argentina's greatest players.
Fernando Gago: A technically gifted midfielder, Gago's passing range and vision were essential to Argentina's build-up play. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was crucial. Gago's composure on the ball and his ability to make accurate passes under pressure were valuable assets to the team. His experience playing in top European leagues gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to read the game and make intelligent decisions. Gago's performances throughout the tournament were impressive, showcasing his technical skills and his ability to contribute to the team's attacking play.
Ángel Di María: A dynamic winger, Di María's pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His injury in the quarter-final against Belgium was a major blow to Argentina's chances. Di María's ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was crucial. His pace and dribbling skills made him a nightmare for opposing full-backs. Di María's goal-scoring ability was also a valuable asset to the team. His absence in the semi-final and final was sorely felt, as Argentina lacked his creativity and attacking threat.
Lucas Biglia: A reliable defensive midfielder, Biglia provided balance and stability to the midfield. His work rate and tackling ability were important in breaking up opposition attacks. Biglia's ability to win the ball back and distribute it effectively was crucial in maintaining Argentina's control of the midfield. His experience playing in Italian football gave him a tactical advantage, and he was able to read the game and make intelligent decisions. Biglia's performances throughout the tournament were solid and consistent, showcasing his reliability and his ability to contribute to the team's defensive efforts.
Maxi Rodríguez: An experienced midfielder, Rodríguez provided valuable experience and versatility to the squad. His ability to play in multiple positions and his goal-scoring record made him a valuable asset. Rodríguez's experience playing in top European leagues was a valuable asset, and he was able to provide insights and advice to his teammates. His composure under pressure and his ability to make intelligent decisions were also crucial in helping the team maintain its focus. Rodríguez's leadership qualities and his ability to communicate effectively with his teammates made him a valuable asset both on and off the field.
Ricardo Álvarez: A creative midfielder, Álvarez provided a spark of inspiration in the attacking third. His dribbling skills and passing range made him a threat to opposing defenses. Álvarez's ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was crucial. His pace and dribbling skills made him a difficult opponent for opposing midfielders. Álvarez's performances throughout the tournament were promising, showcasing his potential and his ability to contribute to the team's attacking play.
Enzo Pérez: A hardworking midfielder, Pérez provided energy and commitment to the team. His tackling ability and work rate were important in breaking up opposition attacks. Pérez's ability to win the ball back and distribute it effectively was crucial in maintaining Argentina's control of the midfield. His performances throughout the tournament were solid and consistent, showcasing his reliability and his ability to contribute to the team's defensive efforts.

Forwards

Lionel Messi: The talismanic captain, Messi's dribbling, passing, and goal-scoring ability made him the focal point of Argentina's attack. While he didn't reach the heights of his Barcelona form, he still produced moments of brilliance, including four goals in the group stage. Messi's ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was unparalleled. His vision and passing range were exceptional, and he was able to dictate the tempo of the game. Messi's goal-scoring ability was also crucial, as he was able to find the back of the net in crucial moments. Despite the team's ultimate defeat, Messi was awarded the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.
Gonzalo Higuaín: A prolific striker, Higuaín's finishing ability and movement off the ball were crucial to Argentina's attacking play. While he missed some key chances in the knockout stages, he still contributed valuable goals and assists. Higuaín's ability to find space in the box and his clinical finishing made him a constant threat to opposing defenses. His movement off the ball created opportunities for his teammates, and he was able to link up effectively with Messi and Di María. Higuaín's performances throughout the tournament were solid, showcasing his goal-scoring ability and his contribution to the team's attacking play.
Sergio Agüero: Another world-class striker, Agüero's pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability made him a valuable option off the bench. His injury in the group stage limited his impact, but he still provided moments of brilliance. Agüero's ability to take on defenders and create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates was crucial. His pace and dribbling skills made him a difficult opponent for opposing defenders. Agüero's goal-scoring ability was also a valuable asset to the team. His performances throughout the tournament were promising, showcasing his potential and his ability to contribute to the team's attacking play.
Ezequiel Lavezzi: A hardworking forward, Lavezzi provided energy and commitment to the team. His work rate and tackling ability were important in pressing opposing defenders. Lavezzi's ability to win the ball back and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was crucial. His performances throughout the tournament were solid and consistent, showcasing his reliability and his ability to contribute to the team's defensive efforts. Lavezzi's versatility and his ability to play in multiple positions made him a valuable asset to the team.
Rodrigo Palacio: A versatile forward, Palacio provided depth and cover in the squad. His ability to play in multiple positions and his goal-scoring record made him a valuable asset. Palacio's experience playing in top European leagues was a valuable asset, and he was able to provide insights and advice to his teammates. His composure under pressure and his ability to make intelligent decisions were also crucial in helping the team maintain its focus. Palacio's leadership qualities and his ability to communicate effectively with his teammates made him a valuable asset both on and off the field.

Conclusion

Argentina's 2014 World Cup squad came agonizingly close to achieving their ultimate goal, falling just short in the final against Germany. While the disappointment of defeat lingered, the tournament showcased the talent, determination, and passion of the Argentine players. The memories of Messi's brilliance, Mascherano's leadership, and Romero's heroics will forever be etched in the hearts of Argentine football fans. The 2014 World Cup journey was a testament to the enduring spirit of Argentine football and the unwavering support of its fans.