Thousands of fans gathered in Buenos Aires on Monday to welcome Argentina‘s national football team after its narrow 1-0 defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final. Despite cold weather and heavy rain, supporters lined the streets, waving flags, singing, and lighting fireworks to thank the squad for another memorable tournament.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed before the team’s arrival that several players would not travel with the main squad. Captain Lionel Messi was not seen leaving the aircraft when it landed, according to live television coverage.

Head coach Lionel Scaloni and the returning players received a ceremonial welcome featuring a red carpet and a military band before boarding an open bus. They greeted thousands of cheering supporters during their journey through the capital.

Although Argentina failed to defend the title it won in 2022, many fans treated the team as champions. Supporters praised the players for reaching a second consecutive World Cup final and expressed gratitude for years of success under Messi’s leadership.

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Housewife Marga Ledezma said the nation remained proud of the team regardless of the result. She thanked Messi for the joy he had brought to Argentina over the years and hoped he would continue representing the national side despite approaching the later stage of his career.

Spain secured the World Cup with a 1-0 victory after extra time in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal, ending Argentina’s attempt to become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the World Cup title.

The final also attracted criticism in sections of the international media because of repeated fouls and heated confrontations involving both teams. However, many Argentine supporters defended their players and insisted the squad showed determination throughout the tournament.

Several fans described Argentina’s semi-final victory over England as one of the team’s defining moments. The match reignited political debate after some supporters displayed banners claiming the Falkland Islands belong to Argentina. FIFA has opened an investigation into banners shown by players following the victory, which drew criticism from the United Kingdom.

Textile worker Leonardo Barrientos said the team united the country and deserved appreciation regardless of the final result. Another supporter, Maria Ortiz, acknowledged that Spain deserved the victory but said Argentina had given fans unforgettable memories throughout the competition.

Messi shared an emotional message on Instagram following the defeat. He admitted the loss was deeply painful but said the squad should remain proud of reaching back-to-back World Cup finals. He also congratulated Spain on winning the title.

The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward became only the second men’s player, after Brazil’s Cafu, to appear in three FIFA World Cup finals. Messi remains Argentina’s most decorated footballer, leading the nation to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima. He has also won the Ballon d’Or a record eight times.

President Javier Milei announced that the government plans to declare a future public holiday, on a date agreed with the team, to honour Argentina’s World Cup campaign. Officials have not yet confirmed the date.

Thousands of supporters also gathered around Buenos Aires’ Obelisk on Sunday night to celebrate the team’s achievements. The celebrations later turned tense when brief clashes broke out between some revellers and police. Officers dispersed crowds using water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets, while authorities detained 15 people.