The city of New York was the scene of a massive gathering of Argentine fans in the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup final.
More than 10,000 fans gathered in Times Square, one of the city's most iconic spots, where they held a flag-waving event that painted the heart of Manhattan in sky blue and white.
Several hours before the official call, set for 5 PM (local time), Argentine jerseys began to appear in the area.
The flag wave
As the afternoon progressed, the number of people increased until it filled a large part of the traditional intersection of avenues. Minutes before the scheduled time, pedestrian traffic was practically impossible in that sector.
The day was marked by adverse weather conditions. Rain began to fall from noon in Manhattan and in areas near the stadium where the final will be held, but it did not prevent fans from maintaining the gathering. Despite the weather, the fans stayed in place and created a pre-game atmosphere filled with enthusiasm.
The mobilization in New York adds to a series of gatherings that supporters organized throughout the tournament in various cities across the United States. From the first meeting at Mill Creek Park in Kansas City, prior to the debut against Algeria, to this flag-waving event in Times Square, support for the team remained constant.
The flagging.
The flag-waving event in Times Square
During the gathering, references to historical and current figures in Argentine football were a constant. Flags featuring Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi were seen in various sections, while the repertoire of chants combined support for the team captain with traditional Argentine fan songs.
“Come on, come on, sing with me, you'll find a friend. With Leo Messi by our side, we'll turn it all around,” the fans chanted between 46th Street and Seventh Avenue. Another common chant was also heard: “And you can see, and you can see, the one who doesn't jump is an Englishman,” referring to the recent victory against England in the semifinals.
The festive atmosphere unfolded amid the usual activity of Times Square, where street performers and costumed characters continued their routines while tourists from different parts of the world stopped to observe the scene. The Argentine gathering attracted the attention of visitors who came to witness the prelude to the final.
Among the chants, a slogan that was repeated throughout the tournament stood out: “For Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo's last one, Argentina, I want to see you as champions again…,” referring to the team's goal in the decisive match.
Meanwhile, several fans took advantage of the gathering to try to get tickets for the final, which will mark the conclusion of a tournament that will now have its definition between Argentina and Spain.
This Sunday’s match will capture global attention and, as has happened in every appearance of the team led by Lionel Scaloni, a strong presence of Argentine fans in the stands is expected. The National Team will seek to conquer a new star and achieve back-to-back championships on the most important stage in world football.
