Thousands of football fans braved cold and rainy weather to give Argentina’s national team a warm welcome upon their return home from the United States, despite their defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and the absence of captain Lionel Messi.
Warm Welcome Despite World Cup Heartbreak
Argentina returned home after finishing as runners-up at the 2026 World Cup, having lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time in the final.
Although the homecoming was far different from the massive celebrations that followed Argentina’s World Cup triumph in 2022, thousands of supporters still gathered to show their appreciation for the team.
Fans filled the streets, singing, dancing and setting off fireworks as they welcomed the players back to Argentina.
Lionel Messi Absent From Team’s Return
The Argentine Football Association had announced that some members of the squad would not be traveling back with the team.
Lionel Messi, Argentina’s legendary captain, was notably absent as the players stepped off the plane, according to footage broadcast by local television.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni and the other returning members of the squad were welcomed with a red carpet outside the aircraft, accompanied by music performed by a military band.
The players then boarded a team bus and waved to enthusiastic supporters gathered along the route.
Spain End Argentina’s Hopes of Retaining World Cup Title
Argentina entered the tournament hoping to successfully defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022.
However, Spain ended those ambitions by securing a 1-0 victory after extra time in the 2026 World Cup final, claiming their second world title.
Argentina’s performance in the final also attracted criticism from international media, particularly over the number of fouls committed and concerns surrounding the conduct of some players.
Victory Over England Remains a Highlight for Fans
Despite losing the final, many Argentine supporters viewed the team’s 2-1 semifinal victory over England as one of the most memorable moments of their World Cup campaign.
The politically sensitive dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands also resurfaced during the celebrations.
Some supporters carried Argentine flags featuring messages referring to the islands and Argentina’s longstanding sovereignty claim.
FIFA Opens Investigation Into Argentina
FIFA has opened an investigation into the Argentine national team after players displayed a banner referring to the Falkland Islands following their semifinal victory over England.
The incident triggered angry reactions in the United Kingdom and added another controversial chapter to Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
Despite the disappointment of losing the final and surrendering the world title, the scenes in Buenos Aires demonstrated the continued passionate support for Argentina’s national team following another deep run on football’s biggest stage.
