Argentina fans sang and howled their joy in the still snow-covered streets of Montreal after their team’s dramatic victory this afternoon against France in the World Cup final.
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“It’s the best Christmas present I’ve been waiting for. I am more than happy. Throughout the game, I kept my faith in my team”, dropped Ovidio Belitez while giving a thumbs up to the logo of his jersey in the colors of the victorious team.
Hundreds of supporters who had come to encourage the Albiceleste had gathered since very early this morning at the Conca d’Oro café in Little Italy. Many ignored the cold and the sidewalks still covered in snow to watch the game on a small television installed outside since the establishment was packed.
MARIO BEAUREGARD/QMI AGENCY
The heart of the Montreal district took on the appearance of a veritable winter carnival after Argentina won for the first time since 1986.
Let’s go Argentina
Fans immediately took to the streets to dance, shout and sing the popular sports anthem “Vamos, vamos, Argentina [Allez, Allez l’Argentine] while waving blue and white flags. Confetti mixed in with the party as cars honked past.
“It’s difficult economically in Argentina right now so I think the people, who are really passionate about [soccer], needed this win for his sanity. The country deserves it,” said Valentina Bulgerella.
Arriving from Argentina alongside her Quebec buddy Félix Riopel, she set foot in Montreal for the first time about a week ago.
“It’s amazing, I feel like home thanks to the people here who support my country. I feel so welcome,” she added, wrapped up in her scarf and toque.
Even at COP15, which is due to end tomorrow, several delegates had taken a break from intense negotiations to watch the game.
“We have worked hard over the past 15 days for biodiversity, we can afford to watch a World Cup final on a small screen for 90 minutes! My guilt is limited,” commented Frenchman Ryan Worms, adviser to Environment Minister Steven Guilbault.
A suspense until the end
The meeting will have kept the spectators on the end of their chair until the last second. Les Bleus supporters were disappointed with the way the team played the first half. Nearly 600 of them gathered in the premises of the Union française de Montréal, in the city center, chanting: “Allez les Bleus! »
Croissants and coffee were served to those who came for the occasion. The most festive had pints of beer in hand from 10 a.m. in the morning.
MARIO BEAUREGARD/QMI AGENCY
“I am completely discouraged. It’s terrible, we can’t even touch the ball, ”said Lucie Cadio, who was watching the match on a screen behind the bar.
France finally made a comeback, which gave hope to many. “The first 75 minutes were really to Argentina’s advantage before France woke up. This game was crazy, what a great show, ”reported Patrick Depelsenaire, who has lived in Quebec for 33 years.
Messi’s legacy
However, this would not have been enough for France to win honors during this great world tournament. Some Argentinian expats were also happy with the win as it was captain Lionel Messi’s last chance to clinch the World Cup.
“I grew up with Messi and he’s really an inspiration to me and to a lot of young people. The fact that he is winning now is just amazing. It is his legacy,” said Martin Resua Rojas, who wore his national flag like a cape over his shoulders.
“The country depended on this victory. And for several players on the team, it was their last chance at the World Cup. We so wanted it to happen for them, ”added Camila Montiel in turn.
The woman from Argentina traveled in the cold with her husband to listen to the part with her colleagues despite being eight months pregnant.
