Numerous Argentines flooded the streets of Buenos Aires on Sunday in celebration of their country’s thrilling World Cup triumph over France on penalties, which made the South Americans champions for the first time since 1986.
Argentina, spearheaded by star Lionel Messi, won its third World Cup after defeating France, the defending champions, 4-2 on penalties after tying 3-3 after extra time in a nail-biting final played in Qatar in front of about 88,000 spectators.
“It’s unbelievable! It was challenging, but we succeeded thanks to Messi,” said Santiago, 13, as he and his family celebrated the triumph in front of the Buenos Aires home once owned by late soccer great Diego Maradona, who coached the squad in 1986.
Argentines quickly occupied the downtown area of Buenos Aires and other famous locations after the victory, carrying flags, hats, and the nation’s trademark blue-and-white jerseys. Different parties erupted in other parts of the nation.
“It was an incredible game, at times anguishing,” said 46-year-old Diego Aburgeily, who cheered on the national side from the suburbs of Buenos Aires. “This team made people fall in love with them for the first time in decades.”
The South American squad hadn’t won a World Cup since 1986 when they fell to Germany in the 2014 tournament final. However, the team’s success has inspired fervent support in Argentina, where 40% of the population now lives in poverty due to severe inflation and an economic crisis.
