Chaos and exodus grip Buenos Aires ahead of decisive England match

Buenos Aires was gripped by a mix of nervous anticipation and widespread chaos on Wednesday as the city prepared for Argentina's crucial World Cup semifinal clash against England. More than an hour before kickoff, major thoroughfares and public spaces were already feeling the strain, with residents and office workers rushing to get home or to gatherings.

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A lot of people come here to watch every game. This place explodes. Some stand outside looking through the window.

Businesses across the city made the decision to close their doors prematurely. Shopkeepers lowered their shutters, leaving streets eerily quiet, while public transport hubs became scenes of frustration. Bus stops were overwhelmed with long queues of people waiting for services that struggled to navigate the exceptionally congested traffic. Many found themselves stranded amidst the growing pandemonium.

In contrast to the general shutdown, venues equipped with large screens, such as pizzerias, became focal points for fans. Ariel Fernández, an employee at Accademia della Pizzería, noted the surge in customers eager to watch the match. "A lot of people come here to watch every game. This place explodes. Some stand outside looking through the window," he said.

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If there's no extra time, we'll reopen. But if the game goes long, we'll close directly.

For some businesses, the decision to close depended on the game's progression. A clothing store employee explained, "If there's no extra time, we'll reopen. But if the game goes long, we'll close directly." Others, like Alejandra Tomé, a Cabify driver, chose to work, adhering to a personal superstition. She planned to listen to the match commentary on the radio and celebrate goals with her passengers, some of whom also followed the game on their phones.

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For superstition, I have to work.