Thousands of Argentinians braved cold and rain on July 20, 2026, to welcome their national football team home after a heartbreaking World Cup final loss to Spain in the United States. The team, however, returned without its iconic captain, Lionel Messi, and a few other players, according to the Argentinian Football Association (AFA).

This marks a stark contrast to the joyous celebrations that followed Argentina's World Cup victory in 2022. The team's return comes after a 1-0 defeat against Spain, a result that denied them a chance to win back-to-back World Cups. The final match was reportedly marred by numerous fouls and displays of poor sportsmanship from the Argentinian side.

Despite the absence of their captain and the disappointing final outcome, a significant number of fans gathered at the AFA training complex near Ezeiza international airport. They displayed flags and used blue-and-white umbrellas to shield themselves from the drizzle, eager to show their appreciation for the team's efforts throughout the tournament. Coach Lionel Scaloni and the remaining squad members were greeted with a red carpet and a military band.

The implications of the loss and Messi's apparent absence from the return flight are significant for Argentinian football. Fans expressed a mix of disappointment and gratitude, with many urging Messi not to retire from international play. The team's performance, particularly their semifinal victory over England, resonated deeply with the public, uniting the nation.

Fans like Marga Ledezma, 36, expressed their thanks to Messi for years of happiness and encouraged him to continue playing. "I think they criticise us because we know what it's like to suffer, that we get up, we fall down again, and we keep going," Ledezma commented, reflecting a resilient spirit among the supporters.

Leonardo Barrientos, 36, highlighted the team's ability to unite the country, emphasizing that their gratitude extends beyond the tournament results. "This team united us all, and we should be grateful for that. We will always be there for them, rain or shine. I would say thank you to Messi, and that he gave it his all," he said.

Even supporters like Maria Ortiz, 28, acknowledged Spain's deserved win but remained appreciative of the team's dedication. "Happy for what the team gave us," she stated, holding her two-year-old child.

Following the final, thousands of Argentinians converged on the Obelisk in Buenos Aires, the traditional celebration site, to acknowledge their team. While the mood was largely celebratory and grateful, brief clashes erupted late at night, leading to police intervention with water cannons, tear gas, and rubber bullets, resulting in fifteen detentions, according to police sources.