Scaloni's dentist plea
Lionel Scaloni was mobbed by fans after returning home from the World Cup, forcing him to plead with the crowd to let him go to the dentist. The Argentina boss saw his side lose 1-0 to Spain in extra time in last Sunday's final, but he still received a hero's welcome.
Fans have been camping on his garden lawn in the town of Pujato, near Rosario. A viral video shows Scaloni trying to make his way through adoring fans while security usher him to a car, giving high-fives to children and greeting adults.
'I have a dentist appointment'
“I have a dentist appointment,” he is heard telling the crowd. “I will be back soon.” Scaloni has since left Pujato, and his family put a note on the door: “Leo left last night!!! Thanks for all the love.” He is said to have come out of his house every afternoon to greet fans, signing autographs and posing for selfies.
Social media users expressed amazement at the reception. One posted: “It's as though they won the World Cup. Massive love.” Another said: “Nice guy for doing all that for the fans. It seems overwhelming though.” A third added: “Bro literally can't go home without being hounded.”
Emotional statement
Scaloni broke down in tears during his post-match press conference. On Monday, he posted an Instagram statement: “After an intense week where sadness intertwined with joy, tears with smiles, anguish with tranquillity, and nerves with calm, I can finally sit down to write a few words. All I can say is I'm sorry I couldn't bring home another trophy and give you a new reason to celebrate. But I want you to focus on what we tried to show you through this group of players - my warriors. The effort, the drive, the desire, the 'I can do it' attitude, refusing to give up. That is the true trophy.” He thanked his coaching staff, players, and AFA staff, adding: “P.S. Whoever has an Argentine friend has a treasure.”
