Argentina’s national football team received a rapturous welcome in Buenos Aires on its return from this year’s World Cup, with thousands of fans celebrating the squad despite its defeat in the final.
Lionel Scaloni’s side came close to securing back-to-back World Cup titles but fell short, losing 1-0 to Spain in the tournament’s showpiece match and finishing runners-up.
The reception awaiting the Albiceleste suggested anything but disappointment. Supporters turned out in large numbers to express their pride in the team’s campaign, gathering from early in the day at Ezeiza International Airport and along the route taken by the squad’s convoy to the Argentine Football Association’s training centre.
Crowds waving flags, singing and chanting created an atmosphere more commonly associated with a title celebration than a second-place finish, underlining the enduring bond between the national team and its supporters.
However, captain Lionel Messi was not among those who returned with the delegation to Buenos Aires. Nine other players also did not travel with the squad: Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández, Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, Gerónimo Rulli, Nico Paz, Cristian Romero, Nahuel Molina and Juan Musso.
The turnout highlighted the appreciation of Argentine fans for a team that once again reached the pinnacle of world football, even if it ultimately fell one step short of lifting the trophy.
Mira como estaba este tipo con el amor de la gente.
— Joaconel. (@Joaconel) July 21, 2026
Adónde vas a ir, hermano, naciste para dirigir a la selección Argentina y dejarnos siempre en lo más alto. pic.twitter.com/BZq2s6sfSt
Simply 𝐀𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐚, don’t try to understand it ❤️🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/DAjDW3yxgX
— Selección Argentina in English (@AFASeleccionEN) July 21, 2026
