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Lionel Scaloni will take charge of his 100th match as Argentina head coach on Friday when the reigning world champions face Cape Verde in the FIFA World Cup round of 32 in Miami.
The milestone marks a major achievement for the 48-year-old, who has been in charge since 2018 and has overseen one of the most successful periods in Argentina’s modern football history.
Scaloni was initially appointed on an interim basis after the 2018 World Cup but quickly earned the role permanently after improving results and team performance.
Under his leadership, Argentina have won the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa America and the 2022 Finalissima.
In 99 matches so far, Argentina has recorded 72 wins, 18 draws and nine defeats, including a long unbeaten run between 2019 and 2022.
Argentina now faces Cape Verde in the World Cup knockout stage, with Scaloni urging caution against the tournament debutants, who have surprised many by advancing from a group featuring Spain and Uruguay.
The match will be played in Miami under hot and humid conditions, adding another challenge for the reigning world champions as they continue their title defense.
Despite his achievements, Scaloni has played down talk of legacy, insisting his focus remains on the tournament rather than personal milestones. He is also expected to discuss a potential long-term contract extension with the Argentine Football Association after the World Cup.
“I never imagined reaching 100 matches,” he said, reflecting on the milestone. “It will be a wonderful moment when it happens.”
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