Report by Tribun-Papua.com journalist, Calvin Louis Erari

TRIBUN-PAPUA.COM, NABIRE – A resident of Nabire, Central Papua, has expressed his unwavering support for the Argentina national football team ahead of the FIFA World Cup, which will kick off on 12 June 2026 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Arnold Kandenapa, a man from Nabire, revealed that his loyalty to the Albiceleste is an emotional family legacy that has been nurtured since his childhood.

“Argentina is non-negotiable,” Arnold told TribunPapuaTengah.com on Friday (5 June 2026).

For Arnold, the Tango Team is not a newfound passion. His devotion has been deeply rooted since his early years.

“I’ve supported Argentina since I was a kid. In fact, I can say that my entire family are also loyal Argentina fans,” he said.

Looking back, Arnold’s love for the team grew thanks to the legendary figure Diego Armando Maradona. The football icon was the main reason his heart became attached to the sky blue and white colours.

“From then until now, my all-time hero is the Hand of God, Maradona. Even though he has long retired,” he recalled.

However, as time passed, Arnold’s perspective on his favourite team evolved. He now views football in a more mature and collective way.

Arnold emphasised that his support is no longer centred on any individual star but on the team as a whole. For him, the spirit of unity and teamwork is far more valuable than reliance on individual brilliance.

“Now, I don’t focus on individual players anymore. I support the country—Argentina. I don’t want to support just one person; I support the team as a whole,” Arnold stated firmly.

He believes that the key to success on the pitch doesn’t lie in who shines the brightest individually, but in how disciplined teamwork and effective finishing are executed on the field.

For Arnold, the 2026 World Cup is not merely a 90-minute football spectacle. It’s a celebration of togetherness, where memories of past legends meet new hopes for the future of his beloved team.

In Nabire, under the warmth of family spirit, Arnold remains steadfast in waiting for the moment when Argentina’s national anthem echoes once again and the dream of winning the championship becomes reality.

“So, for tomorrow, my hope is, of course, that Argentina will win the 2026 World Cup,” he concluded.