Following its showcase at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Argentina, nicknamed the Albiceleste, earned nominations for the annual FIFA awards that recognize standout performances across the globe.
During World Cup years, the two premier awards typically reflect the events and players who defined the tournament. When a team stands out as clearly exceptional, as Argentina did in Qatar 2022, those nominations tend to honor the team’s triumphs and individual contributors alike.
All the winners of The Best throughout history
Given Argentina’s momentum after Qatar, it was expected that the Albiceleste would feature prominently in the Best Awards gala, held less than three months after Lionel Messi sealed the World Cup at Lusail Stadium.
In the wake of Qatar, Argentina’s national squad had representatives on the final shortlists across the three male categories to be decided at the Zurich ceremony on 27 February. The overwhelming fan support seen during and after the World Cup also propelled some to aim for recognition in the broader fan-award category.
Julian Álvarez appeared on the provisional shortlist for best player of the year, while Francisco González Metilli was listed among candidates for the Puskás Award for best goal. Neither name reached the final lineup, however.
Next: GOAL See all of Argentina’s nominations for The Best awards.
BEST PLAYER: Lionel Messi
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With one title missing from his decorated career finally secured, Messi stood as a leading contender to claim the award for the second time, following his 2019 triumph. His World Cup performances, marked by seven goals and a standout influence, complemented a strong early season at PSG.
On the shortlist alongside him were France’s Kylian Mbappé and Karim Benzema.
BEST GOALKEEPER: Emiliano Martínez
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From relative anonymity to one of Argentina’s most celebrated icons in a short span, the Mar del Plata native has become a national hero. Martínez lifted the Golden Glove in Qatar, delivering crucial moments in penalties against the Netherlands and France, while also making vital saves in other tight fixtures. His World Cup displays starred as a defining chapter of the season. He contends with Thibaut Courtois and Bono for the award.
BEST COACH: Lionel Scaloni
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The once-remarkable youth-team coach who stepped in on an interim basis in 2018 ended Argentina’s long title drought with the 2021 Copa América triumph and went on to guide the team to World Cup glory. Under his leadership, Argentina compiled a historic 38-match unbeaten run and secured the Finalissima against Italy, adding another official trophy to the cabinet.
In the running with Scaloni are Carlo Ancelotti of Italy and Pep Guardiola of Spain.
FAN AWARD: The fans
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Argentina’s support illuminated stadiums across Qatar, with the crowd’s passion and the iconic anthem Muchachos becoming a global sensation. After the campaign, millions joined in joyous celebrations, underscoring how deeply the team resonated with fans. The fan award lineup included a Saudi supporter who traveled a thousand miles to cheer on the team and Japanese fans who cleaned the stands after each match in Qatar.
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