Argentina fans clash with police in Buenos Aires after World Cup final loss, Milei declares national holiday

Defeat on the pitch

Argentina lost the World Cup final to Spain by a single goal in extra time, the match ending 1-0 after 120 minutes at the tournament hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada. It was the second consecutive final for Lionel Scaloni's side, who fell short of matching Italy and Germany's record of four World Cup titles each. Spain, meanwhile, secured their fourth triumph, sparking celebrations at home and beyond.

Gathering turns violent

In Buenos Aires, hundreds of thousands of fans had converged on the Obelisco, the traditional rallying point for football celebrations. The mood was initially festive despite the defeat: supporters played instruments, let off fireworks and sang in appreciation of the team's campaign. Around 23:45 local time police moved to disperse part of the crowd, triggering a rapid escalation.

Given the concerns regarding the celebrations for the milestone achieved by the Argentine National Team, I inform the public that, depending on what the players and the technical staff decide regarding the day to celebrate, it will be declared a national holiday.

A segment of the group threw bottles, rocks and other objects at officers. In response, riot police deployed water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets. Scenes broadcast by local media showed fans fleeing charges and some injured being carried away by fellow supporters. Main arteries in the city centre were closed as security forces worked to restore order.

At least 12 arrests, unknown injured

Official reports confirmed at least twelve people were taken into custody. The number of injured remains unclear, as authorities have not released a medical tally. The confrontation lasted roughly half an hour before the area was cleared. The Obelisco, protected by barriers, became the flashpoint when some fans attempted to breach them.

Milei promises a national holiday

President Javier Milei quickly moved to acknowledge the team's achievement. On his social media account, he announced that the day chosen by the players and coaching staff for a public celebration would be declared a national holiday. The timing is still to be set, pending the squad's return from the United States.

Immediately after the match, Milei had thanked the team, saying they "fought until the last moment" and that Argentina would always aim for the top. The holiday move appears designed to channel disappointment into collective pride, avoiding a repeat of the street tension that erupted after the final whistle.

Spain's celebrations and the road home

Spain celebrated its fourth World Cup with mass gatherings in Madrid and Barcelona, complete with flags, flares and car parades. A victory parade in an open-top bus is planned after the team's return, with institutional meetings with the royal family and prime minister Pedro Sánchez also scheduled. In Gaza, fans assembled around a large screen amid rubble, lifting plastic chairs in excitement at the winning goal.

The Argentine squad, led by Scaloni, was expected to depart New York early on 20 July and arrive at Buenos Aires's Ministro Pistarini Airport around 17:00 local time. Some players will go on holiday before their club seasons resume, while others will join their teams directly. It remains unconfirmed whether Lionel Messi will travel to Argentina or stay in the United States.