Over the past few years, a growing debate—especially on social media—has fueled a sense of rivalry between Argentina and Mexico. This tension intensified following their most recent World Cup clash in Qatar 2022, where Argentina proved dominant. With Lionel Messi now playing in MLS for Inter Miami, and facing Mexican clubs more frequently, the rivalry narrative continues to spark headlines. But for Messi himself, the notion of this rivalry remains questionable.
In a recent interview with Quique Wolff on Simplemente Fútbol, the Argentine legend expressed confusion over the origins and intensity of the perceived hostility between the two nations.
“The truth is I don’t know what happened with Mexico—when this rivalry started,” Messi said. “I’ve always felt very loved by Mexico. I never disrespected anyone. I think they put themselves in a position of having a rivalry with us that doesn’t really exist.”
Messi didn’t stop there. He firmly dismissed the idea of an even playing field between the two national teams: “The comparison between Argentina and Mexico doesn’t exist.” The quote can be interpreted in two ways: either as Messi downplaying the entire conversation as fan-made fiction—or as a clear declaration of Argentina’s superiority, backed by years of dominance.
Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates scoring their team’s first goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group C match between Argentina and Mexico
Argentina’s dominance in numbers
There’s certainly a historical foundation for Messi’s confidence. Argentina holds a commanding record over Mexico in head-to-head soccer matchups, winning 19 of 36 official contests. From World Cups to Copa América and a slew of friendlies, the rivalry may be emotionally charged for fans, but statistically, it’s been one-sided.
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Despite Mexico’s rise in global football stature, Argentina consistently brings out its best when the two sides meet. The Albiceleste, while respectful of El Tri’s progress, has rarely faltered when facing them.
Their last encounter
The most recent meeting came during the group stage of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. On November 26 at Lusail Stadium, Argentina earned a crucial 2–0 victory, with goals from Lionel Messi and Enzo Fernández. That match not only boosted Argentina’s campaign—it also marked the last official fixture between the two nations to date.
A historic head-to-head breakdown
Here’s how the numbers stack up across different competitions:
- World Cup: 4 matches — 4 wins for Argentina, 0 draws, 0 wins for Mexico
- FIFA Confederations Cup: 1 match — 1 win for Argentina
- Friendlies: 23 matches — 10 wins for Argentina, 10 draws, 3 wins for Mexico
- Copa América: 5 matches — 2 wins for Argentina, 2 draws, 1 win for Mexico
- Pan American Games: 3 matches — 2 wins for Argentina, 1 draw, 0 wins for Mexico
