Argentina secured qualification to the Round of 16 in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a thrilling 3-2 win against Cape Verde on Friday.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in Miami but a second-half equalizer from Deroy Duarte forced extra time. The island nation then levelled scores again through Sidny Lopes Cabral after Lisandro Martinez’s go-ahead strike. However, there was no third-time luck for the Blue Sharks as an own goal from centreback Diney in the 111th minute ultimately proved decisive.
Watching all the action unfold from the stands was their former legend Diego Simeone. The former midfielder was the first player ever to rack-up a century of appearances for La Albiceleste and lifted two Copa Americas with the team.
However, over two decades post-retirement, his return to the iconic blue and white of Argentina freaked out fans.
Simeone was seen sporting his son Giuliano’s number 17 World Cup home jersey for the occasion. Not only is the winger part of the Argentine squad, but he got there as a result of his performances under Diego himself at Atletico Madrid.
While Guiliano only got promoted to the senior team in 2022, his father has been at the helm for the Rojiblancos since 2011. Diego has taken Atletico from being an afterthought to Real Madrid and FC Barcelona in Spain to becoming perpetual competitors in La Liga. Under his reign, the club has won the league twice, while also reaching two UEFA Champions League finals.
In the process, Simeone has become a cult figure for the Colchoneros.
His formal all-black attire has become a staple at the sidelines, always featuring black shirt, pants, and suit complete with a black tie.
Simeone’s animated demeanor during games has further played a role in making the fitting instantly recognizable across the footballing landscape. So much so that seeing Simeone in colours he donned for a living in the past alienated fans.
“Almost couldn’t recognize him without the black on black”, a user wrote on X.
“Like seeing a school teacher on Non-uniform Day, spooky”, another replied in agreement.
“Literally my brain is refusing to register him as simeone”, a comment surmised.
Argentina will now take on Egypt In Atlanta on July 7. A win against the African outfit will see them through to the quarterfinals. Simeone is likely to be present in the stands again, hoping his son gets some minutes. And fans will undoubtedly be wishing he dons his trademark all-black outfit on this occasion.
