Naples Cheers for Argentina in World Cup Absence

In Naples, where football is more than just a sport, the absence of Italy from the World Cup has led to an unusual allegiance: the city is enthusiastically backing Argentina. This passion is deeply intertwined with the city's fervent devotion to Diego Maradona, who captained Argentina to World Cup glory 40 years ago and led Napoli to its first scudetto a year later. The city's connection to Argentina is palpable, with even early morning matches, like Argentina versus Switzerland at 3:00 AM, drawing dedicated viewers.

The author, who has spent summers in Naples, describes the city's vibrant, chaotic energy, a stark contrast to the tranquility of the surrounding islands. She notes the local legends and superstitions, including the myth of the siren Partenope and the veneration of Saint Gennaro, whose liquefying blood is believed to portend the city's well-being. Maradona is elevated to a saintly status, with a prominent mural and altar dedicated to him in the Spanish Quarter.

Naples' football fervor is further amplified by recent successes. Argentina's victory in the 2022 World Cup mirrors Napoli's own triumph in winning the Italian league championship last year, their first since the Maradona era. This parallel has fueled a local superstition: if Napoli won their fourth scudetto last year, then Argentina, by this Neapolitan logic, is destined to win their fourth World Cup this year.

While Italy's national team is absent from the global tournament, Naples finds a surrogate passion in Argentina, channeling its footballing spirit into supporting the South American giants. The city's unique blend of local lore, historical reverence for Maradona, and recent sporting triumphs creates a powerful narrative of shared destiny between Naples and the Albiceleste.