Violent clashes erupted between Argentine football fans and police officers in central Buenos Aires after Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain in extra time during the 2026 World Cup final, forcing police to use tear gas and water cannons to control the situation and arrest at least 15 suspects.
Severe unrest and violent clashes occurred between groups of Argentine national team fans and riot police near the Obelisk monument on a major street in downtown Buenos Aires late Sunday night (19 Jul) local time, following Argentina’s 0-1 defeat to Spain in extra time of the 2026 World Cup final held at MetLife Stadium in the United States.
Reports stated that tens of thousands of fans gathered at the Obelisk plaza to watch the live broadcast on giant screens. The atmosphere was initially peaceful until the match ended, when some fans began expressing dissatisfaction, attempting to break through security barriers around the monument, which escalated into throwing glass bottles, stones, and various objects at riot police.
To quell the unrest and disperse the crowd, police deployed water cannons and tear gas against protesters, resulting in over 20 minutes of chaos with debris and broken glass scattered across the street. Photographs emerged showing police using force against protesters who had fallen, fueling criticism. Authorities have so far arrested at least 15 suspects, with several injured, though their conditions remain unclear.
In the final match, Spain secured their second World Cup title with a winning goal by Ferran Torres in the 106th minute of extra time, amid a fiercely contested game marked by red cards. Argentine midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off during the match, and Leandro Paredes received a red card after the final whistle for pushing and assaulting Spain’s Eric Garcia.
Although Argentina missed out on the championship, President Javier Milei announced on social media plans to declare a "national public holiday" to honor and celebrate the dedication of the players and coaching staff of the Argentine team as world runners-up. The specific date for the holiday will be decided in consultation with the players and staff.