Argentinians flood streets to thank team despite World Cup final loss to Spain
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Tens of thousands of Argentinians celebrated their national soccer team in streets across the country despite losing the World Cup final to Spain.
- Fans gathered at iconic landmarks like Buenos Aires' Obelisco, singing and setting off fireworks to show appreciation for the team's effort.
- The outpouring of support highlighted national pride, with fans emphasizing their gratitude for reaching the final and the team's dedication.
Buenos Aires, Argentina โ Even in defeat, Argentinians took to the streets in massive numbers to celebrate their national soccer team after its World Cup final loss to Spain. Tens of thousands of fans congregated in cities and towns nationwide on Sunday, turning public squares into impromptu celebrations.
The iconic Obelisco in Buenos Aires became a focal point, drawing crowds who sang, danced, and set off fireworks. Despite the 1-0 loss to Spain, marked by a goal in extra time, the atmosphere was one of pride and gratitude. "I am very happy and very proud of the country I have because even if we lose and are out of the final, we celebrate it anyway, we celebrate it like a victory," said Uriel Vignoles, a fan at the Obelisco.
I am very happy and very proud of the country I have because even if we lose and are out of the final, we celebrate it anyway, we celebrate it like a victory.
Supporters emphasized their appreciation for the team's effort and their journey to the final. "If we were another type of people, we would be sitting on the sidewalk crying, making a fuss, and we are making a fuss of joy because we value the effort of each player and that we could reach the final, and that is what makes us most proud," Vignoles added. Images of the players and fans were projected onto the Obelisco.
Similar scenes unfolded in other major cities, including Rosario, Lionel Messi's hometown, where thousands gathered at the Monument to the Flag. The celebrations, filled with chants and Argentine flags, underscored a deep sense of national unity and support for the team, regardless of the final outcome.
If we were another type of people, we would be sitting on the sidewalk crying, making a fuss, and we are making a fuss of joy because we value the effort of each player and that we could reach the final, and that is what makes us most proud.
Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.