News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 29, 2018: With their recent victory, Argentina finished second in Group D to secure a place in the round of 16, where they will play France in Kazan on Saturday.
Argentine football fans went ecstatic after Argentina progressed to the World Cup knockout stage after a 2-1 victory against Nigeria in Saint Petersburg, Russia, on Tuesday.
With only one point after first two matches, Argentina was on the brink of an early exit from the 2018 FIFA World Cup before Tuesday’s match.
To cheer for the Albiceleste, large numbers of fans gathered at Plaza San Martin in Buenos Aires for the Group D match that they said felt like riding a rollercoaster.
“For me this match felt like a horror film. Even the last goal at the 84th minute only meant that there could be hope for us,” said Lucho, an Argentine football fan.
The must-win match also helped fans regain confidence for the Argentine team.
“I think this match has put away some pressure. We could beat France 3-1 (in the round of 16),” said Gaston, another fan.
“I believe we can be the champion. Sometimes it is like this, our team fights harder in times of trial,” said Miguel, another fan.
The Argentines were happy for Lionel Messi as the soccer superstar snapped his cold streak and scored his first goal in this year’s World Cup — he slammed a long-range passing from midfielder Ever Banega into the far corner of the net in the 14th minute.
“I have absolute confidence in Messi who is having an interview back there. Of course the footballers need to fit in better, they still don’t look like an integral team for the moment,” said Lucho while gesturing at the Messi’s image on the big screen. (SOURCE: CCTV)
