Argentina fans gave their heroes a typically passionate reception ahead of their first match after securing global glory.
Lionel Scaloni’s side won the World Cup in Qatar last, beating France 4-2 on penalties, to take their third title.
And supporters flocked to capital city Buenos Aires to greet Lionel Messi and Co as they face island minnows Panama in a friendly on Thursday evening.
Thousands packed into the Estadio Monumental, the home of River Plate, with fans waving flags, banging drums and chanting joyously in another celebration of their World Cup triumph.
Among those in the stands were captain Messi‘s partner Antonela Roccuzzo and their children.
Argentina fans gave their heroes a raucous reception in their first match since the World Cup
Music was performed in the massive stadium above the message ‘Thank you Champions’
Supporters waved flags, dressed up in their colours and banged drums in a party atmosphere
It was ‘Messi Mania’ for victorious captain Lionel, who lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022
Paris Saint-Germain forward Messi, 35, started the friendly against Panama on Thursday
Messi’s partner Antonela Roccuzzo (centre) and his children were present in the stands
Thousands packed into River Plate’s Estadio Monumental to greet their triumphant heroes
The stands were a sea of white and light blue as the seething mass greeted their stars joyously
TV news channels showed live pictures of the players arriving at the stadium for the match along with a police escort.
Paris Saint-Germain forward Messi, widely considered one of the greatest players of all time, had been previously blasted by Argentines for not caring enough about his country or not delivering on the biggest stage like legend Diego Maradona did.
But that has all changed now, and according to reports, on Monday hundreds of fans crowded outside a steakhouse in Palermo, Buenos Aires, when they realised Messi was inside having dinner.
As he walked out smiling, surrounded by security, well-wishers chanted ‘Messi I love you’ and ‘Thank you, Leo’.
If Messi scores against Panama, it will be the 800th strike of his career, and if he nets a double, it will be his 100th for the national side.
source: dailymail.co.uk
