Ahead of Argentina's final Group J match against Jordan at the FIFA World Cup 2026, head coach Lionel Scaloni shared a heartfelt moment with esteemed journalist Enrique Macaya Marquez. This tribute was particularly special as Marquez, at 91 years old, is covering his 18th World Cup.

During a pre-match press conference in Arlington, Marquez was invited to pose the first question. Before answering, Scaloni took a moment to recognize the legendary journalist's impressive career and his enduring presence in football journalism.

"It’s a pleasure for me to respond to one of your questions. I answer it because it’s you; enjoy the World Cup," Scaloni remarked, as captured in a video shared on social media. Marquez responded with a smile, saying, "That’s enough for me."

Lionel Scaloni: “ES UN PLACER PARA MÍ PODER RESPONDER UNA PREGUNTA SUYA. La contesto porque es usted, que disfrute del Mundial.” Enrique Macaya Márquez: “Con eso me basta.” Hermoso este intercambio. ❤️

The touching exchange received warm applause from those present and was followed by another memorable moment when Scaloni approached Marquez after the press conference, embracing him and taking photographs together.

Macaya Marquez's connection with the World Cup has lasted nearly seven decades. Born in Buenos Aires in 1934, he began his journalism journey at the young age of 15 with Radio Rivadavia.

By the age of 23, he was covering the 1958 World Cup in Sweden for Radio Belgrano, marking the start of his long-standing relationship with football's premier tournament. His first World Cup assignment was 68 years ago, and he has reported from every edition since, becoming a prominent voice in Argentine sports media.

At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) and FIFA recognized Macaya Marquez for his remarkable achievement of covering the most World Cups, with 17 tournaments to his credit at that time.

Earlier this month, CONMEBOL honored him as he began his work at the 18th World Cup, highlighting his dedication to sharing football's memories and emotions across generations.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino also commended Macaya Marquez during the tournament's opening week, describing his accomplishment as "truly incredible."

Beyond his World Cup legacy, Macaya Marquez is a celebrated figure in Argentine football. He hosted the influential television program Futbol de Primera from 1985 to 2009, chronicling the sport's history across generations.