Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his support for Argentina in the World Cup 2026, stating that he wants them to win the tournament. Netanyahu revealed his backing for La Albiceleste during a recent podcast appearance, citing his admiration for the nation's leadership as the reason for his support. The Prime Minister clarified that his decision was not driven by Argentine legend Lionel Messi, but rather by his geopolitical admiration for the nation. He praised Argentine President Javier Milei, saying he is a "real superstar" and "Israel's greatest friend".
Netanyahu's comments highlighted his growing camaraderie with Milei, who has aggressively sought close relations with the Israeli government since taking office. Milei has repeatedly expressed staunch support for Israel and strengthened diplomatic ties with the country, including announcing plans to relocate Argentina's embassy to Jerusalem. For Netanyahu, this political friendship took absolute priority over any on-pitch football fandom. His vocal support for Argentina comes amid a backdrop of geopolitical tensions and controversies surrounding the World Cup.
The controversy surrounding Argentina's 3-2 victory over Egypt in the Round of 16 has sparked suggestions of political punishment. The match was marred by widespread refereeing controversies, including a disallowed goal by Mostafa Ziko that would have put Egypt up 2-0. Egypt manager Hossam Hassan's vocal support for Palestine during the World Cup could have allegedly played a factor in the controversial decisions made by the officiating team. Hassan furiously accused FIFA of "injustice" following the match, suggesting that external elements helped keep the reigning world champions in the tournament.
FIFA refereeing chief Pierluigi Collina quickly dismissed Hassan's allegations as "unfounded", but the intersection of geopolitical statements and refereeing drama has kept the match at the center of global conversation. As Argentina prepares for their quarter-final showdown, the controversy surrounding the Egypt match continues to simmer. The World Cup has once again become a platform for geopolitical tensions to play out, with leaders and managers using the tournament to make statements and further their agendas.
