Supporters of Argentina in Buenos Aires revelled in their World Cup triumph against England, setting fire to flags and parading a coffin draped with the Union Jack across the capital’s streets.
The Wednesday evening encounter rekindled a long-standing rivalry that had lain quiet for 20 years, yet the reigning world champions pressed forward in their quest for a fourth World Cup title, shattering English hopes – much to their delight.
Building on tournament successes in 1986 and 1998, Argentina secured victory with an injury-time goal against the Three Lions. Lautaro Martinez nodded in the decisive strike after Anthony Gordon had put England ahead in the second period.
The heated fixture carried significant political undertones, with the Falklands War remaining a point of contention amongst South Americans. Argentine players have repeatedly alluded to it throughout the competition, and supporters at home took immense satisfaction in defeating England.
Amid the festivities in Buenos Aires, fans were seen torching English flags while a coffin covered in a Union Jack was paraded as thousands flooded the streets, reports the Mirror.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has faced substantial criticism for his tactical decisions, particularly after the Three Lions took the lead. The side shifted to a considerably more cautious strategy, with his substitutions bringing on several defenders in an attempt to preserve the result.
Lionel Messi’s impact intensified, and following Enzo Fernandez’s equaliser on 85 minutes, they continued to bombard the England goal before securing their winner in added time. The eight-time Ballon d’Or holder has his sights set on a second World Cup triumph, which would further solidify his legendary status.
He made reference to those back home in Argentina who are facing difficult times, expressing his hope that the victory brought them some happiness.
“We are proud and happy to be able to give this to the people, we know that the World Cups are special for us,” he said. “
We forget all the bad things we have to go through, there are people who have a hard time, who don’t have a job, who don’t make ends meet, it’s our life, what we’ve always had to deal with, it’s beautiful to be able to give this joy to them.”
He went on to add: “We Argentinians always demand more. If we had lost to England today, there would have been people saying stupid things, and we didn’t give them the chance… we knew that we were better than them at football, but it’s still special because of everything it means.”
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