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Messi statue town celebrates Argentina's World Cup final berth

From CNA · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Argentines celebrated their national soccer team's advance to the World Cup final, with crowds gathering in towns like Cutral Co to watch the semi-final match against England.
  • The victory, a 2-1 comeback win, sparked widespread jubilation across the country, reminiscent of past national triumphs.
  • The win sets up a final match against Spain, with Argentina aiming to become the first country since 1962 to win back-to-back titles.

In Cutral Co, a town in Patagonia known for its 85-foot statue of soccer star Lionel Messi, Argentines erupted in celebration after their national team secured a spot in the World Cup final. A crowd of around 300 gathered to watch the semi-final against England, erupting in cheers as the referee blew the final whistle on their 2-1 victory.

It was a victory of suffering. It's a good recognition of all that Messi has done.

— Lucas RomeroA local resident in Cutral Co, commenting on the semi-final win and the Messi statue.

The win was particularly meaningful, carrying historical weight due to past rivalries with England, including the 1982 Falklands War (known as the Islas Malvinas in Argentina) and Diego Maradona's iconic 1986 goal. Argentina's Vice President Victoria Villarruel alluded to this deeper significance, stating that facing England was "always something more."

While the start of the 2026 tournament saw a more subdued atmosphere compared to the 2022 victory, national fervor grew with each advancement. In Buenos Aires, fans waved flags and honked car horns, their emotions running high. "I’m overcome with emotion," said Mariano Gecik, a 49-year-old professor. "Once again, it’s about resurrection, resilience, and sheer grit; we truly deserve our place in the World Cup final."

I'm not going to be politically correct or cold-hearted; against the English, it's always something more. It's the Malvinas, it's Diego, it's Leo's last one, and it's putting the brakes on the invaders.

— Victoria VillarruelArgentina's Vice President, posting on X before the semi-final match.

Now, Argentina looks ahead to the final against Spain, aiming to achieve a rare back-to-back title, a feat not accomplished since 1962.

I’m overcome with emotion. Once again, it’s about resurrection, resilience, and sheer grit; we truly deserve our place in the World Cup final.

— Mariano GecikA university professor in Buenos Aires, reacting to the victory.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by CNA in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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