Argentina has returned home as World Cup runners-up, their dream of retaining the title shattered. But captain Lionel Messi was not with the squad. He has stayed on in the United States for personal reasons, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) said.
Coach Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina side landed at Buenos Aires’s Ezeiza International Airport on Monday, local time. A red-carpet reception and a military band awaited them. Despite failing to win the World Cup, AFA officials were also present to welcome the players.
But all eyes were on Lionel Messi, and the captain was not seen stepping off the plane. The AFA had said earlier that several squad members would not return home with the team. Along with Messi, a few other footballers have remained in the United States.
Braving rain and cold, thousands of supporters crowded outside Ezeiza airport and around the national team’s training center. Waving sky-blue-and-white flags and umbrellas, they welcomed the runners-up with applause and chants. Even with the World Cup lost, there was no shortage of affection for the players.
Earlier, thousands of supporters had gathered at the historic Obelisk square in Buenos Aires right after the final. The team was celebrated with fireworks, songs and applause, but the situation deteriorated as the night wore on. At one point, some unruly supporters clashed with police.
Police used water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets to bring the situation under control. At least 15 people were detained, local police said.
Argentina’s dream of a second consecutive World Cup title ended with a 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain. Yet the warm reception on their return made clear that, trophy or no trophy, Scaloni’s side remains the team of millions of Argentine hearts.
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