Huge Crowds Party in Buenos Aires After Argentina’s Dramatic World Cup Win
Football fans in Argentina let loose in the captial Buenos Aires on Sunday after Lionel Messi led the country to victory in one of the most dramatic World Cup finals in history.
Messi came to Qatar looking to crown a glittering career by leading Argentina to a third World Cup triumph and managed just that after a staggering 3-3 draw ending in a 4-2 shootout win against former champions France.
It was the country’s third World Cup title and the first since 1986.
During the match, fans watching in a public square in Buenos Aires chanted the name of their their team captain Messi, who is considered by many to be the world’s greatest football player.
“Holding Leo Messi by the hand, we’re going to go all the way,” the crowd could be heard chanting.
Following the win, the streets of Argentina’s capital erupted into a wall of noise as millions of fans cried, hugged and sang to the backdrop of fireworks and music.
Hector Quinteros, a 34-year-old security guard said: “I feel an immense happiness in my heart because this is the first World Cup I truly enjoy.”
At the end of the first half, many were gearing up to celebrate as Argentina led 2-0 and clearly dominated the match.
But that early happiness turned to anxiety as France caught up, ultimately leaving the score at 3-3 before Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties.
For many, the agonizing feelings of Sunday’s roller-coaster final made the victory all the sweeter.
“When you suffer over something so much, the satisfaction is greater,” said Fabio Villani, a 45-year-old video editor who was celebrating in the capital.
Fans also took a moment to remember Argentina great Diego Maradona, who led the national team to what had been its last World Cup title in 1986 and died two years ago.
Javier López, 18, said: “Diego sees everything from heaven, he wouldn’t have wanted Argentina to lose.
“The first cup without him and we won! Diego is always here, he’s eternal.”
Brazilian football legend Pelé took to social media to congratulate Argentina for their victory and added: “Diego is certainly smiling now.”
The post Huge Crowds Party in Buenos Aires After Argentina’s Dramatic World Cup Win was originally published on ITV.
