Videos shared on social media show fans in Gaza celebrating Argentina’s dramatic win over England in the World Cup semi-final, cheering as Lionel Messi’s side scored their late goals.
Content creator Mahmoud posted the video on his Instagram account, capturing the reaction of fans in Gaza as they watched Argentina complete their comeback against England on Wednesday.
The clip drew a wave of comments from viewers expressing support for the Argentinian team.
One user wrote, “Thank you, Argentina… 🇦🇷💙🇵🇸.”
Another wrote, “Shukran Habibi 🤍🇦🇷🫂🇵🇸.”
One fan wrote, “Vamos lets goooo viva Palestina 🇦🇷🌟🇵🇸.”
Another simply wrote, “gaza loves messi🇦🇷.”
One comment drew a distinction between Argentina’s government and its people, with a user writing, “The president of Argentina does not represent us! The Argentinian people love you, free Palestine🙌❤️.”
Argentina battled back from a goal down to beat England 2-1 in the semi-final, setting up a final against Spain on Sunday. The result sends Messi’s reigning champions into the weekend showpiece as they defend their title.
Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute, and the Three Lions held that lead deep into the second half. Argentina then produced a stunning late turnaround. Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute, and substitute Lautaro Martinez, who had come on in the 81st minute, scored the winner in the 92nd minute, with Messi setting up both goals.
Declan Rice started the move for England’s goal, sending Morgan Rogers through on the right. Rogers crossed for Gordon, who guided the ball past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to spark wild celebrations among England’s players and fans.
Argentina responded with sustained late pressure. Messi found Fernandez in space on the edge of the box, and Fernandez fired a low shot from 20 metres past Jordan Pickford to level the score.
Argentina completed the comeback moments later. Alexis Mac Allister’s shot came back off the post, and Messi collected the rebound. He carried the ball down the right and delivered a cross for Martinez, who headed it home to give Argentina the lead in stoppage time.
The win marked a significant moment for 39-year-old Messi, who is playing what is widely expected to be his final World Cup.
The defeat ended England’s hopes of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966, the year of their only triumph in the tournament.
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s final as they chase another World Cup title.
