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Soccer's role in shaping national identities of England and Argentina

From CNA · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth Named sources Context piece
  • The upcoming soccer World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England highlights contrasting evolutions of national identity.
  • England's identity has shifted towards a more inclusive approach, reflecting its multicultural makeup, a departure from its historical sense of superiority.
  • Argentina's national identity remains rooted in a 1920s "origin myth" centered on the "pibe" archetype, emphasizing virtuosity and cunning, which developed in opposition to English football ideals.

The upcoming soccer World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England is more than just a sporting contest; it represents a fascinating study in how national identities have evolved and are projected onto the global stage. The match carries historical weight and a deep-seated rivalry, but also offers a stark contrast in national self-perception.

England, once defined by a notion of invented superiority and a reluctance to engage with the early World Cups, has embraced a more inclusive national identity. This shift mirrors the country's increasing diversity and multicultural character. In contrast, Argentina's sense of national identity, according to cultural historians, is deeply anchored in a "pibe" archetype established in the 1920s. This archetype, characterized by resourcefulness and cunning, was deliberately cultivated in opposition to the English footballing ethos.

If you gave that description to somebody now, without any context, what would they say? It’s (Diego) Maradona. But this was 32 years before Maradona was born.

— Jonathan WilsonThe author describes an early depiction of an Argentine footballer that eerily resembles Diego Maradona, illustrating the long-standing archetype.

Pablo Alabarces, a professor of popular culture at the University of Buenos Aires, notes that early Argentine sports journalists actively promoted a distinct style of play and identity. Jonathan Wilson, author of "Angels With Dirty Faces: The Footballing History of Argentina," recounts an influential 1928 article describing a statue of an Argentine footballer that foreshadowed the characteristics of Diego Maradona. This "pibe" figure became central to Argentina's national narrative during a period of significant migration and nation-building.

While Argentina has experienced shifts in migration patterns, the "pibe" concept endures, influencing contemporary players like goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Former player Jorge Valdano attributes Argentina's World Cup final triumph in Qatar to this ingrained "know-how and cunning," learned from the streets. England, too, has a history of migration, but its recent waves have reshaped its identity in ways that continue to unfold.

Our know-how and cunning allowed us to triumph in a match when France had managed to level it. And that's something you learn in the street.

— Jorge ValdanoThe former player attributes Argentina's World Cup victory to ingrained cultural traits learned outside formal training.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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