Lionel Scaloni reaches 100 matches as Argentina coach amid yerba‑mate sponsorship controversy

Argentina entered the 2026 World Cup with a perfect record in the group stage, a performance that follows their recent World Cup win in 2022 and back‑to‑back Copa América titles. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced a sponsorship deal with Brazilian yerba‑mate producer Baldo, making the brand the official mate of the national team. Provincial deputy Juan Szychowski criticised the partnership, arguing that a national kit should promote Argentine products, while a social‑media poll showed a near‑even split in public opinion.

In the same tournament, head coach Lionel Scaloni is set to mark his 100th match in charge when Argentina faces Cape Verde in the round of 16. Scaloni, who took over as interim coach in 2018 and led the team to a World Cup title, has amassed a 78.7% win rate and four major trophies. He acknowledged the milestone and said the focus remains on the team's performance.