1993 Artemio Franchi Cup: Argentina vs Denmark
The 1993 Artemio Franchi Cup served as a prestigious clash between the champions of two different continents. This second edition of the tournament brought together the winners of the previous South American and European championships to determine which region held the upper hand in international football.
The match featured Argentina, the victors of the 1991 Copa América, and Denmark, the surprise winners of UEFA Euro 1992. The encounter took place on 24 February 1993, at the Estadio José María Minella in Mar del Plata, Argentina.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Winner: Argentina (won 5–4 on penalties).
- Final Score: 1–1 after extra time.
- Date: 24 February 1993.
- Venue: Estadio José María Minella, Mar del Plata.
- Attendance: 34,683 spectators.
- Historical Significance: This was the final trophy Diego Maradona won with the Argentine national team.
Match Analysis and Progression
The game was a tightly contested affair, reflecting the high quality of both continental champions. Denmark took an early lead in the 12th minute, though the goal was recorded as an own goal by Argentina's Néstor Craviotto.
Argentina fought back to equalize in the 30th minute through a goal by Claudio Caniggia. Despite the efforts of both sides and the presence of legendary players, the score remained locked at 1–1 through the end of regulation time and 30 minutes of extra time.
The Penalty Shoot-out
With the match deadlocked, the result was decided by a penalty shoot-out. Argentina displayed superior precision, winning the shootout 5–4. The successful penalty takers for Argentina included Diego Maradona, Gabriel Batistuta, Diego Simeone, Alejandro Mancuso, and Julio Saldaña.
Denmark's efforts were led by players such as Elstrup, Mølby, Nielsen, Vilfort, and Laudrup, but they ultimately fell short against the Argentine side.
Match Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | 24 February 1993 |
| Venue | Estadio José María Minella, Mar del Plata |
| Referee | Sándor Puhl (Hungary) |
| Attendance | 34,683 |
| Argentina Qualification | Winners of 1991 Copa América |
| Denmark Qualification | Winners of UEFA Euro 1992 |
| Final Result | Argentina 1–1 Denmark (Argentina won 5–4 on penalties) |
Team Lineups
Argentina
Managed by Alfio Basile, the Argentine squad featured a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents. The starting XI included goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea, defenders Néstor Craviotto, Jorge Borelli, Sergio Vázquez, and Ricardo Altamirano. The midfield was anchored by Diego Simeone, Alejandro Mancuso, and captain Diego Maradona, supported by Leonardo Rodríguez. The attack was led by Gabriel Batistuta and Claudio Caniggia.
Denmark
Managed by Richard Møller Nielsen, the Danish side was led by the formidable goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel. The defense consisted of Jakob Kjeldbjerg, Lars Olsen (captain), Torben Piechnik, and Marc Rieper. The midfield featured Johnny Mølby, Bjarne Goldbæk, Kim Vilfort, and Henrik Larsen, while the forward line was composed of Brian Laudrup and Lars Elstrup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 1993 Artemio Franchi Cup?
Argentina won the tournament, defeating Denmark 5–4 in a penalty shoot-out after the match ended in a 1–1 draw following extra time.
Where was the match played?
The match was hosted at the Estadio José María Minella in Mar del Plata, Argentina.
Why was this match significant for Diego Maradona?
The 1993 Artemio Franchi Cup was the last trophy that Diego Maradona won while playing for the Argentina national team.
How did the teams qualify for this event?
Argentina qualified as the winners of the 1991 Copa América (the South American championship), and Denmark qualified as the winners of UEFA Euro 1992 (the European championship).
Who were the goalscorers during regulation and extra time?
Denmark scored first via an own goal by Néstor Craviotto in the 12th minute, and Argentina equalized through Claudio Caniggia in the 30th minute.