Following their victory over England, Argentine players found it hard to sleep, with the thrill of Lautaro Martinez's goal, fan embraces, and securing a World Cup final berth replaying in their minds. However, as La Nacion noted, this team has learned when to temper their celebrations.

Enzo Fernandez celebrates with his family after Argentina's victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinal at Atlanta Stadium, US on 15/7. Photo: Instagram / valucervantes

Just hours after eliminating England, Argentina had a new training schedule in Atlanta – the final session before heading to New York to prepare for the match against Spain on 19/7.

Consequently, celebrations were brief. Players sang in the locker room, embraced their families, and shared joy with fans who followed the team bus to the hotel. The focus quickly shifted to their ultimate goal: defending the championship.

The scene unfolded immediately after referee Ismail Elfath's final whistle. For nearly 45 minutes, players lingered on the field, facing thousands of chanting fans. Some paused before the tunnel, quietly acknowledging the supporters, while others calmly walked around, greeting the crowd.

Following the memorable evening, the Argentine team sought to extend their time with fans, whose unwavering support had created a bond transcending mere football results.

Before media engagements, players joined their families in a designated stadium area. Parents, spouses, children, and relatives embraced the players, still in their match kits. Tears flowed for some as they took photos. Only then did the team return to the locker room for their private celebration.

Familiar songs filled the air, ranging from chants mocking England and referencing the Malvinas (Falkland Islands) to the anthem long associated with Argentina: "This passionate fanbase does everything for the golden Cup, for the team with Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona." Against England, this melody resonated with particular intensity.

Lionel Messi (left) and Emiliano Martinez acknowledge fans after the match. Photo: La Nacion

Three players exhibited particular excitement. Emiliano Martinez, after conceding an early goal, visibly released his emotions as Argentina mounted a dramatic comeback. Lautaro Martinez emerged as the hero, scoring the winning goal in stoppage time.

Rodrigo De Paul also had a notable game. After five years, he made his first official start from the bench. However, once on the field, the 32-year-old midfielder displayed his experience, tenacity, and character, providing the necessary impetus for Argentina to reverse the match.

The team bus traveled nearly 15 km from Mercedes-Benz Stadium to the Grand Hyatt hotel, greeted by long lines of Argentine fans. Car horns, flags, and waving hands lined the route.

In the hotel lobby, players shared final embraces with relatives before returning to their rooms. Some rewatched the match, shared videos of Lautaro's goal, monitored social media reactions, and responded to congratulatory messages from Argentina.

Argentine players celebrate in the locker room. Video: Instagram / afaseleccion

However, at the rest hour mandated by fitness coach Luis Martin, the celebrations concluded. While the joy lingered, the training regimen had already begun.

La Nacion observed, "It's not easy for players to disengage from emotions after such an intense match. Yet, this squad understands it's not the moment to prolong celebrations. Argentina has faced similar situations before and knows that recovery must commence immediately after a game."

This emphasis on immediate preparation was evident after the quarterfinal win against Switzerland, when coach Lionel Scaloni requested players to minimize interview time and promptly return to the hotel. For Argentina, rest is integral to their preparation.

The following morning, Atlanta reverted to its normal pace. Overnight, the Fan Fest adjacent to the stadium was dismantled after weeks of operation. Stages, screens, stalls, and barriers were cleared. The usual sight of police cars blocking streets or helicopters overhead was gone.

Only a few Argentine fans, still in their jerseys, waited for airport transport. The fortunate would continue to New York for the final, while others faced the journey back to Argentina. Some were still attempting to change tickets, hoping to extend a trip they wished would never end.

Atlanta's World Cup chapter concluded, but Argentina's journey continued. In the upcoming training session, starting players would focus on recovery, while others engaged in practice matches. Everyone needed to be ready, as the toll stemmed from both physical exertion and mental pressure.

The coaching staff aimed for players to recover energy swiftly, while also giving substitutes opportunities to demonstrate their readiness when called upon.

From this point forward, Argentina's complete focus shifts to Spain. Scaloni must decide whether to retain the lineup that defeated England or make adjustments to the midfield.

Hong Duy (via La Nacion)