By Reuben Olita
Defending FIFA World Cup champions Argentina on Wednesday night moved a step closer to rewriting football history by becoming only the second nation to successfully defend the World Cup title since the tournament began in Uruguay in 1930.
Led by Lionel Messi, La Albiceleste are on a mission to retain the crown they won four years ago. The only country to achieve consecutive World Cup triumphs remains Brazil, which lifted back-to-back titles in 1958 in Sweden and 1962 in Chile.
In a dramatic encounter, England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon after a fine assist from Jude Bellingham. However, Argentina responded late in the match when Enzo Fernández struck a stunning effort from outside the box with four minutes remaining in normal time. Messi was credited with the assist following a cleverly worked short corner routine. Messi netted the winner in injury time.
Football fans in Busia County expressed mixed views on which country will ultimately lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup trophy.
Godwin Muganda, who watched the high-stakes match at GN Bar and Restaurant in Amagoro, said he is rooting for Spain to win their second World Cup title.
“Spain is an all-round team. I like their playing tactics. They don’t rely on individual football; they play as a unit. They may not have a single top scorer because every player is capable of scoring. Their midfield and attack are excellent, and they play the kind of tiki-taka football characterized by crisp passing and teamwork. Their style reminds me of Barcelona and Arsenal. Although I am an Arsenal fan, many Spanish players feature for Barcelona. Their style of play makes me support them. I started supporting Spain during the 1990 World Cup in Italy, which was the first World Cup I watched,” Muganda said.
Julius Ekirapa believes Argentina is destined for glory.
“I am behind Argentina. I see them winning their fourth World Cup. They have quality players who understand what is expected of them. They have played well throughout the tournament. Messi, Martínez, and Enzo Fernández are the engine of the team. I believe they will make us proud,” he said.
Dominic Esike from Malaba also backed the South Americans.
“The match was entertaining. Argentina will win the World Cup because they know how to force a result when they play well,” he said.
Fred Emoit, meanwhile, shifted his allegiance after France’s exit.
“I was supporting France, but they lost to Spain. Now I support Spain,” he said.
As the tournament approaches its climax, Argentina’s quest for a second consecutive World Cup title continues to capture the imagination of football fans across Busia County and beyond.
