Argentina celebrates World Cup semifinal berth with street parties

Thousands of Argentinians poured into the streets of Buenos Aires and other major cities to celebrate the national team's 3-1 victory over Switzerland, securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup semifinals. Fans gathered at the iconic Obelisco in Buenos Aires and in government-organized fan zones, braving temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius to cheer. The decisive goal in extra time, scored by Julián Álvarez, averted a penalty shootout and sent waves of jubilation through homes, accompanied by fireworks.

The celebrations extended to other cities like Rosario, where crowds gathered at the Monumento a la Bandera. Even in the Patagonian ski resort of Caviahue, people marked the occasion, with some venturing near a lake to fulfill promises made during the tense match against the Swiss. Social media buzzed with expressions of the anxiety and suffering that often accompany the Albiceleste's journey, as they aim to defend their 2022 World Cup title.

Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes echoed the fans' sentiments, stating, "As I always say, it's not worth it without suffering. We are doing something incredible." The team now faces England in a historically charged semifinal. This match carries significant weight beyond football, referencing the long-standing political and historical tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning the Falkland Islands, which led to a war in 1982. The two countries have a storied World Cup history, including memorable encounters in 1986, 1998, and 2002.