Thousands welcome Argentina's football team despite World Cup final loss, Messi expresses 'deep pain'

Thousands of Argentinian fans braved cold and rain to give their national football team a rousing welcome upon their return from the United States. The reception came despite the disappointment of losing the 2026 World Cup final to Spain and the absence of their iconic captain, Lionel Messi.

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Will celebrate the Argentinians anyway.

Scenes of jubilant celebration filled the streets as fans danced, sang, and set off fireworks to thank the players. The Argentinian Football Association confirmed that some team members would not be on the return flight. Messi himself was not seen disembarking the plane in initial television footage. Coach Lionel Scaloni and the rest of the team were greeted with a red carpet and a military band before boarding a bus to wave at the enthusiastic crowds.

"Argentinians will celebrate anyway," said housewife Marga Ledesma, referring to the team's performance. She thanked Messi for "all the years he made us happy" and urged him not to retire internationally, acknowledging his age. The loss to Spain, which ended Argentina's bid for a second consecutive title, drew criticism in some international media for perceived errors and a lack of sportsmanship from certain players.

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Thank you for all the years you made us happy.

Many fans felt the true victory was their semi-final win against England, particularly given the ongoing sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands. Some fans carried flags proclaiming "Falklands are Argentinian," a gesture that led FIFA to open an investigation after sparking angry reactions in London. Leonardo Barrientos, a textile factory worker, stated, "This team united us all, and we must be grateful. We will always stand by them." He also thanked Messi for doing his best.

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This team united us all, and we must be grateful. We will always stand by them. I would like to say thank you to Messi, he did everything he could.

Maria Ortiz, accompanied by her two-year-old child, acknowledged that Spain deserved the win but expressed happiness with the team's effort. Messi, in an Instagram post, conveyed his "very deep pain" over the final, calling the wound difficult to heal but also acknowledging the positives. He reflected on the team reaching two consecutive World Cup finals and the pride of being Argentinian. Messi did not address his future with the national team in his message. He scored 8 goals during the tournament but ultimately fell short of securing the title.

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Spain deserved the win, but I am happy with what the team gave us.