Argentina's preparations for the FIFA World Cup, set for June-July 2023, are overshadowed by a crisis within the Argentine Football Association (AFA). Claudio Tapia, the AFA president, is facing corruption allegations, including a tax evasion charge that could lead to a prison sentence of two to six years. This comes amid a power struggle with President Javier Milei, who aims to privatize Argentina's soccer clubs, a move that Tapia and the AFA oppose. Public sentiment has shifted against Tapia due to unpopular reforms in the domestic soccer league and a series of World Cup warm-up matches against lower-ranked teams, which have drawn criticism for lacking competitive value. Players, including team captain Lionel Messi, have attempted to distance themselves from the political turmoil, focusing instead on their performance. As fans express their dissatisfaction, the national team is urged to remain united in the face of adversity, with midfielder Rodrigo De Paul emphasizing the need for solidarity to defend their title.