Riot police deployed tear gas and a water cannon to disperse thousands of Argentina fans who clashed with authorities after the national team's 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain. The match, held in New Jersey, ended in chaos on the pitch and in the streets of Buenos Aires.
Violence Erupts in Buenos Aires
According to Argentine newspaper Infobae, clashes began around 11:45 p.m. local time near the Obelisk, a national monument where large gatherings often occur. A group of supporters attempted to breach protective fencing, prompting police intervention. Over the next 20 minutes, a "large group" of fans hurled glass bottles and other projectiles at officers, who responded with tear gas and a water cannon.
At least 15 people were detained, and several were injured, though the extent of their injuries remains unknown. Images from the scene show debris littering the streets, and one photograph appears to depict a police officer kicking a supporter on the ground.
Match and Post-Match Tensions
The final saw Spain take the lead through Enzo Fernandez, with Ferran Torres sealing the win with a goal in extra time. After the final whistle, Argentina's Leandro Paredes was sent off for shoving and lashing out at Spain's Eric Garcia. The loss dashed hopes of Lionel Messi and his teammates retaining the World Cup trophy.
Despite the defeat, Argentine President Javier Milei announced a national holiday to celebrate the team's achievement, though the date will be determined by players and coaches. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Milei wrote: "WORLD CELEBRATION. Given the concern about the celebrations for the achievement reached by the Argentine National Team, I inform the population that, depending on what the players and the technical staff decide regarding the day to celebrate, it will be declared a national holiday."
Previous Celebrations
Argentina enjoyed a bank holiday after winning the 2022 World Cup, which took place on the Tuesday following the final, when players returned to Buenos Aires for a parade centered around the Obelisk. The current unrest stands in stark contrast to those earlier celebrations.
