Buenos Aires, Mendoza & Santiago

My journey through Buenos Aires, Mendoza, and Santiago was planned around futbol, culture, and the environments that shape the game beyond the pitch. Each city offered a different lens into how culture and futbol are intertwined.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

This visit was over two separate trips to attend World Cup Qualifying matches:  June 10 vs. Colombia and September 4 vs. Venezuela, both at Estadio Mas Monumental.  I picked up my tickets from the Argentina Football Association headquarters, where I was provided a guided tour of the facility, offering a rare glimpse into the history and accomplishments of the reigning World Champions.  Walking through the halls, surrounded by trophies, photographs, and reminders of generations of greatness, it was impossible not to feel the weight of what Argentine soccer represents. This wasn’t just a federation building—it was a living archive of belief, identity, and pride.

The September 4 match carried added meaning. There was a quiet understanding throughout the stadium that this could very well be Lionel Messi’s final match with the national team on Argentine soil. No formal announcement—just a collective awareness that made every touch, every pause, and every chant feel heavier.  Families filled the stands. Kids wore Messi jerseys, absorbing the moment without fully realizing how rare it was. The crowd wasn’t just loud—it was unified, reverent, and emotional. Generations shared the same space, passing history from one set of eyes to the next.

Mendoza, Argentina

Visiting the western part of Argentina had been a lifelong dream. Experiencing the region’s nature and vineyards with the Andes Mountains as a backdrop was something I had imagined for years, and finally seeing it in person felt grounding in a way that’s hard to describe.

For the futbol focus of the trip, I toured the academy of the local professional team, Godoy Cruz, and observed youth and first team in training. Watching the activities, structure, and preparation across different age groups offered a valuable perspective for my coaching education, showing how development at every level is interconnected and shaped by environment, culture, and methodology.  One thing that stood out was the technical ability of the players of all ages, as their style of play is focused on skills, rather than athleticism.

I also attended a match between Independiente Rivadavia vs Belgrano at Estadio Bautista Gargantini, soaking in the local passion for the game and experiencing a side of Argentine soccer beyond the top-flight clubs. The energy in the stands, the chants, and the rivalry brought the local football culture vividly to life.

Aside from futbol, the cultural experience was unforgettable.  Somewhere between tasting Malbec and wandering through sun-dappled streets, I met a local girl. What followed was a short-lived romance, fleeting in time but unforgettable in memory.  Mendoza left a lasting impression, and I hope to return soon!

Santiago, Chile

Logistically, it made sense to stop here due to an extended layover, as Santiago is closer to Mendoza than flying into Buenos Aires.  During my short stay, I made my way to Plaza de Armas to experience seafood from the local markets, tasting fresh flavors and soaking in the vibrant city energy. Even in limited time, Santiago offered a glimpse into how local culture, cuisine, and daily life intersect with the city’s rhythm and personality.  The visit was brief, but the taste of the fresh sea urchins will last a long time.