The World Cup final between France and Argentina was one of the most exciting in the competition's history.
French fans were disappointed and sad as their team came so close to winning the World Cup.
The celebrations reflect the joy of the match but also the relief that came from it. The joy people shared in the first half quickly turned to silence in the second and many were unable to watch the penalties.
Hundreds of thousands of Lionel Messi's, all with their number 10 shirts, are on the streets in celebration of their footballing legend and the winning team.
While fireworks go off in the middle of the city, street sellers have begun grilling Argentine steaks. The party will continue until the early hours after it has just begun.
Argentina did not just want to win, they needed to win. Argentinians often struggle to make ends meet at the end of the month due to the country's battered economy.
Eli fought back tears when she said that the World Cup had given her a chance to be happy.
The region is united by it. Brazil is the biggest football rival of Argentina. South Americans are proud that Argentina was able to return the cup.
Argentina won an emotional match.
French fans were taken through the wringer this afternoon, as they groaned, cheered and wept their way to the runner-up spot in the World Cup.
After a first half in which the players looked like they were acting out the game in slow motion, they were left wondering what happened to the dazzling side.
France began to show some of its original verve after going 2 down and getting a replacement just before the half time break.
It was the brilliance of KylianMbappe that made the difference. He became the record-holder with his hat-trick. France was back with a chance after a long time.
Not once but two. France looked like it could achieve the most sensational comeback in the game, as it made it three-all with a late penalty.
The boring and depressing reminder of how all great teams eventually topple off their pedestal turned into a fantastic footballing lesson.
It didn't last. Most fans knew they were in for it at the end of the game. Hugo Lloris isn't at his best in a one-on-one match.
It ended shortly after 7pm here. The cafe was silent. A person switched off the TV. People began to drift off into the cold and rain. The jacarandas are beginning to bloom.
All Rights Reserved © 2024
