Argentina Returns Home After 2026 Final, Messi Absent

Cold Welcome at Ezeiza

On a chilly Monday morning, crowds gathered near the AFA training complex just outside Ezeiza International Airport, braving rain and cold to greet the national side. The players arrived by plane, but captain Lionel Messi was not among them, and images showed he never stepped onto the tarmac. Coach Lionel Scaloni and the rest of the squad were met with a red carpet and a military band as they exited the aircraft.

Fans Thank Messi Despite Loss

Fans waved blue‑and‑white umbrellas and held Argentine flags as they waited for hours in the drizzle. Among the thousands was 36‑year‑old Marga Ledezma, who declared that Argentinians would celebrate anyway and urged Messi not to quit playing for the nation. Her sentiment echoed across the crowd, with many expressing gratitude for the years of joy Messi had provided. Even though the return was not the triumph they had hoped for, the atmosphere remained upbeat and appreciative.

A Match Marked by Controversy

Argentina lost the final 1‑0 to Spain, ending a bid for back‑to‑back World Cup titles. The match drew criticism for a high number of fouls and what many viewed as poor sportsmanship from La Albiceleste. A fan, echoing a common feeling, noted that the opposition’s scrutiny stemmed from the nation’s history of suffering and perseverance. The defeat left the team crestfallen, yet the public’s support remained steadfast.

The Real Victory: Semifinal Over England

The real triumph for many supporters was the 2‑1 semifinal victory over England, played against a backdrop of the Falkland Islands dispute. Leonardo Barrientos, a textile worker, said the squad had united the country and thanked Messi for giving his all. He added that the team’s performance in that game gave the nation something to celebrate beyond the final result. Fans have since highlighted that unity as a lasting legacy, regardless of the championship outcome.

Personal Reflections from the Crowd

Maria Ortiz, who brought her two‑year‑old to the gathering, acknowledged that Spain deserved the win. She added that she was still happy for the emotions the team had delivered to the fans. Her balanced view reflected a broader acceptance that a loss could still produce collective pride. The mixture of disappointment and gratitude filled the air as the crowd continued to cheer.

Night of Celebration and Unrest

After the arrivals, thousands moved to the iconic Obelisk in Buenos Aires for a night of festivities. Fireworks illuminated the sky as revelers partied for hours, expressing thanks to the players. Later, tensions flared and brief clashes erupted near the monument. Police responded with water cannons, tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds, detaining fifteen individuals.

Looking Ahead After the Homecoming

The 2022 champion side had set a high bar, and the 2026 squad now faces the challenge of restoring that glory. Messi’s ongoing role remains a topic of speculation, with fans urging him to continue representing Argentina. Looking ahead, the focus will shift to the upcoming qualifiers and rebuilding the team’s momentum. The mixed emotions of this homecoming will likely fuel a determined preparation for future tournaments.