The selection Argentina returned to Buenos Aires this Monday after losing 2-1 to Spain in the final of the World Cup 2026. Although the outcome was very different from that experienced four years ago with the title win in Qatar, thousands of fans braved the cold and rain to welcome the team and thank them for their efforts.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) had previously reported that several members of the squad would not return with the delegation. Among them was Lionel Messi, who traveled directly to Miami and, according to the local press, plans to move to his hometown of Rosario in the coming days.
Coach Lionel Scaloni, his coaching staff and part of the squad were received with a red carpet and a military band at the Ezeiza airport. Later they boarded an open-top bus to greet the thousands of fans who accompanied the journey to the AFA grounds. Among the footballers present were Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez, Nicolás Otamendi, Alexis Mac Allister, Leandro Paredes, Nicolás Tagliafico, Lisandro Martínez, Nicolás González and Gonzalo Montiel.
The fans’ gratitude to the Albiceleste
As the caravan advanced, the serious faces of the players gave way to smiles when they saw the support of the fans. Entire families gathered in the streets with flags, fireworks and songs to recognize the team’s commitment, making it clear that the runner-up finish did not erase the bond built over recent years.
Many fans highlighted that the team once again united the country and especially remembered the 2-1 victory over England in the semifinals, a victory that had a strong symbolic meaning. During the tour, flags could also be seen with the phrase “The Malvinas are Argentine”, in reference to the message that the players themselves had displayed during the World Cup.
On social networks, Lionel Messi shared a message in which he acknowledged that “the pain is very great” and admitted that it will take time to overcome the defeat. Lautaro Martínez also expressed his sadness for not having been able to win the title, although he highlighted the merit of reaching a second consecutive World Cup final.
While Argentina received its footballers with signs of affection, Spain celebrated the World Cup conquest with a massive parade through the streets of Madrid, after being received by King Felipe VI and the President of the Government, Pedro Sánchez.
In Buenos Aires, the demonstrations of support began even before the arrival of the delegation. As soon as the final ended at MetLife Stadium, thousands of people spontaneously gathered at the Obelisk and other emblematic points to sing, dance and thank the Albiceleste’s campaign. The festive day, however, ended with some isolated disturbances that forced police intervention and left 15 people arrested.
