Tears and cheers: Argentina erupts as 28-year wait comes to an end
Tears, cheers, screams of joy to the sky – Argentina celebrated in style on Saturday night as the country's long-suffering fans celebrated the end of a 28-year trophy drought.
All eyes were glued to television screens as the Albiceleste emerged victorious in the Maracanã, securing a 1-0 win over arch-rivals Braziil to take the Copa América title.
As Uruguayan referee Esteban Ostojich whistled to mark the end of the match – and captain Lionel Messi dropped to his knees in celebration on the turf in Rio de Janiero, Argentina erupted. In scenes recreated in villages, towns and cities across the country, supporters clad in light-blue-and-white streamed out onto the streets, cheering, jumping, singing and celebrating.
This is Argentina's first major title since 1993 and not just that, it's Messi's first trophy with the national team. For the first time, fans were able to see the best player in the world celebrate with his compatriots – double the cause for celebration.
"Finally, finally!", shouted Argentine commentator Juan Pablo Varsky as the win was confirmed, the sign for thousands to flood the streets and head downtown.
