Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final not only left millions of fans deeply disappointed, but was also marked by serious disturbances in downtown Buenos Aires.

Thousands of people had gathered around the Obelisk, the traditional spot where Argentines celebrate the national team’s major victories.

Despite the defeat, the atmosphere was initially more emotional than hostile, as many wanted to honor Lionel Scaloni’s team for its run to the final and, most likely, Lionel Messi’s last World Cup appearance.

However, shortly before midnight, the situation changed dramatically.
According to the newspapers “La Nacion” and “Infobae” and the television network “eltrece,” small groups of people began throwing rocks, bottles, and other objects at police officers who had been deployed to the area to manage the crowd. The police responded with a heavy presence, motorcycles, and water cannons, and chases ensued in the surrounding streets.

At least 12 arrests
Contrary to initial unconfirmed reports that there were no arrests, major Argentine media outlets report that the police carried out at least 12 detentions and arrests, while some outlets even mention a higher number of detainees as the operation was still underway.

Why did the riots break out?
Argentine media point out that the defeat alone does not explain what followed.
According to information available so far, the overwhelming majority of fans had gathered peacefully to bid farewell to and honor the national team.

The clashes began when small groups of rioters attacked security forces, repeating a pattern that had also emerged at previous gatherings during the World Cup.

Authorities had already prepared for potential tensions, as even after the victory over England in the semifinals and after advancing to the quarterfinals, similar incidents had occurred at the same venue, involving attacks on police officers, injuries, and arrests.

Analysts in the Argentine media also note that the particularly tense social climate in the country, with ongoing economic pressure and intense political polarization, creates an environment in which large public gatherings can easily be derailed by small violent groups.

However, so far the authorities have not officially attributed political motives to the incidents.

Despite the defeat, most people honored the team
. Despite the clashes, the prevailing mood throughout most of the city was one of excitement.
Thousands of Argentines remained at the Obelisk, chanting slogans in support of the national team and Lionel Messi, acknowledging their run to the final in a tournament where few believed the “Albiceleste” would go this far again.

What Milei
Announced Argentine President, Javier Milei, announced that the government intends to declare a national holiday in honor of the national team, despite the loss of the trophy. The date will be set in consultation with the players and the coaching staff so that an official welcome ceremony can be held upon their return to the country.

*photo source: AP