20/07/2026 15:56 - Actualidad
July 19, 2026, will be etched in the memory of Argentines. The national team, led by coach Lionel Scaloni, fell 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final held at the MetLife Stadium in New York, with a goal by Ferrán Torres at the 106th minute of extra time. Despite the frustration and sadness, thousands of fans gathered at different points across the country to acknowledge the team's effort, which reached the final for the second consecutive time and was the tournament's top-scoring team with 19 goals.
In the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires (CABA), the gathering at the Obelisco—the iconic monument on 9 de Julio Avenue where Argentines traditionally celebrate football victories—began as a peaceful show of support. However, around 11:30 PM, a minority group started throwing stones and bottles at the City Police. According to reports from local media like Infobae and TN, the situation forced security forces to intervene with a water cannon truck and tear gas to disperse the violent demonstrators. The result was at least 15 arrests and 7 police officers injured with multiple traumas.
Sadly, during the match in CABA, the SAME (Emergency Medical Attention System, the city's public ambulance service) reported two deaths from cardiorespiratory arrest: a 67-year-old man and an 88-year-old man. Additionally, a 72-year-old man remains hospitalized in Intensive Care with a reserved prognosis. In total, the emergency system assisted 25 people in the downtown area, two of whom required hospital transfer.
In the capital city of Santa Fe province, the night also ended with isolated incidents. According to the local newspaper El Litoral, around 11:30 PM in the area of Pellegrini Boulevard and Rivadavia street, a group threw blunt objects at the police. There were 3 arrests (ages 29, 33, and 46) and one police officer suffered a leg injury. Local authorities used low-lethal projectiles to control the situation.
Despite these violent acts generated by minorities, the predominant feeling among Argentines is one of absolute pride. The team showed a high level throughout the tournament and kept the dream alive until the very last moment. Furthermore, head coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed he will continue leading the team until December 2026, providing hope and stability for the upcoming challenges of the Argentine National Team.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
