FIFA World Cup 2026: Times Square erupts in Argentina colours as fans rally behind Messi and co. before final
Jul 19, 2026
New York [US], July 19 : Argentina fans turned New York's Times Square into a sea of blue and white as they rallied behind their team ahead of Sunday's (local time) FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Spain.
Supporters clad in Argentina's iconic blue-and-white jerseys filled Times Square with flags, chants and songs in tribute to Lionel Messi, expressing hope that the defending champions will retain the FIFA World Cup title.
The vibrant gathering drew football fans from across the globe, with many stopping to soak in the festive atmosphere, join the celebrations and capture the spectacle on camera.
Defending champions Argentina staged a dramatic comeback to defeat England 2-1 in the semifinal, overturning a first-half deficit. Enzo Fernandez restored parity with the equaliser before Lautaro Martinez struck a stoppage-time winner to send Argentina into the title clash against Spain.
The win over England sent Argentina into the World Cup 2026 final, while England's hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to a heartbreaking end.
Spain, on the other hand, secured a place in the FIFA World Cup final for the first time since their 2010 triumph after defeating France 2-0 with a composed performance.
Lamine Yamal played a key role in the win, winning a penalty after dispossessing Lucas Digne, which Mikel Oyarzabal converted in the 22nd minute to give Spain the lead.
Pedro Porro doubled Spain's advantage after the break following a fine move with Dani Olmo, while France struggled to create clear chances.