Buenos Aires was consumed by a mix of jubilation and anti-English sentiment following Argentina's victory over England in the World Cup semi-final. Fireworks lit up the night sky as the city erupted in celebration, marking a pivotal moment for the nation's passionate football culture.
The atmosphere in the capital was charged, with political undertones accompanying the sporting event. Anti-English banners were displayed publicly, including one that translated to 'England... go f*** yourself.' These sentiments were amplified by recent political commentary surrounding Margaret Thatcher and the Falkland Islands, a historical point of contention between the two nations.
President Javier Milei's administration issued clarifications regarding comments about Thatcher, attempting to manage misinterpretations of admiration for the former Prime Minister, who authorized the 1982 naval task force to reclaim the Falkland Islands. Chants of 'Por Malvinas, por el Diego, por la ultima de Leo'—referencing the Falklands, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi's final World Cup—underscored the deep national significance of the match.
A City Gripped by Football Fever
Shops closed early in anticipation of the game, with rush hour beginning around 2 p.m. local time. Public spaces, like the Plaza de Mayo, saw long queues as locals stocked up on traditional empanadas and alfajores to enjoy during the match. The omnipresence of Lionel Messi was palpable, with his image featured on large advertisements across the city, celebrating him as a national icon on par with Diego Maradona.
Adidas displayed prominent advertisements featuring Messi with the slogan 'YOU GOT THIS.' These displays were visible even outside hotels hosting other international teams, such as the England rugby team, who were advised to be discreet about wearing their national colors.
The fan zone in Palermo became a focal point for supporters, painted in the national colors of sky blue and white. The collective chants of 'MESSI! MESSI! MESSI!' echoed the nation's fervent support for their team, despite some perceptions that their path to the semi-final had been unconvincing.
During the match, England's national anthem was met with boos and the sound of vuvuzelas, indicating a clear lack of goodwill towards the opposing team. The crowd reacted intensely to every tackle, and Anthony Gordon's goal initially stunned many before late goals sent the nation into a state of delirium.