Hatred Towards Argentina United All of Latin America. They're Accused of Racism and Referee Aid

A sarcastic description? "The hope of the Brazilian people." Many claim that "La Albiceleste" is the darling of FIFA, football's global governing body, and its president, Gianni Infantino.

"Argentina got help from the referees," said a Brazilian fan selling World Cup stickers at a Sao Paulo mall, where cheers erupted when England scored their first goal against Argentina in the semi-finals.

"If Brazil couldn't become six-time champions, I'd rather see Spain become two-time champions – rather than Argentina become four-time champions," stated a 42-year-old supporter.

Critics argue that Argentina received more favorable decisions from the officials. "We'll be rooting for Spain," said a 28-year-old financial worker in Bogota. A police officer in Mexico City called Lionel Messi a "legend," but stated he wouldn't accept it if Argentina's success came from referee assistance rather than their own efforts.

At a press conference, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum asked journalists which team they were supporting in the final. "Spain! Spain!" they responded. According to anthropology professor Jorge Negroe, a specialist in the social studies of sport, "this World Cup has proven to be very political."

Even national politics sparked resentment. "I really don't like Javier Milei (the Argentine president, ed. note) at all!" said a 29-year-old agricultural lab operator in Santiago.

"The thought of him then boasting about a World Cup victory doesn't sit well with me."

Argentine fans and some players have also faced accusations of racism – for instance, a chant the team previously sang, which mocked French team's Black players for not being "real" Frenchmen. At the club level, fans have thrown bananas onto the pitch or made monkey gestures towards Brazilian supporters or Black players.

"Four years ago, we achieved what we wanted – to play in the final and be the best for four years. We've shown again that nobody gives us anything for free, and we've once again placed among the top two. Let it hurt whoever it hurts," Messi commented.

A brand of fernet, an alcoholic beverage extremely popular in Argentina, humorously capitalized on the anti-Argentine sentiment. Under the slogan "We are unbearable," they launched an advertisement featuring fans from various teams sitting in a therapy circle, complaining about Argentinians' unbridled passion for football.

However, at training camps in the United States, "La Albiceleste" met with massive support, with people chanting "Messi! Messi!" Some still advocate for regional solidarity. "I'll be rooting for Argentina because it's a South American country," added a 20-year-old student from Lima.