Argentina fans celebrate Maradona and Messi's World Cup legacies

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 12:01 AM

Last updated Jun 23, 2026

Argentina fans celebrate Maradona and Messi's World Cup legacies
Summary

Argentina football fans gathered in bars across Buenos Aires on June 22 to commemorate iconic moments from World Cup history, honoring Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. This year marks the 40th anniversary of Maradona's famous 'Hand of God' goal in 1986, while Messi set a new record with his 18th World Cup goal against Austria. Fans expressed their admiration for both players, noting Maradona’s impact on the working class and Messi's clean image. As Messi approaches his 39th birthday, supporters emphasize protecting his focus as Argentina aims to defend their World Cup title. A recent rumor regarding Messi's father was addressed, prompting fans to rally for their star's mental well-being amid the tournament.

Source Links
By the Numbers
  • Buenos Aires fans honor Maradona and Messi on June 22.
  • Messi becomes all-time World Cup goalscorer with 18 goals.
  • Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal anniversary celebrated.
  • Supporters rally to protect Messi's focus amid rumors.
  • Argentina aims for back-to-back World Cup titles.
Latest Updates
  • 12:01 AMYahoo SportsWorld Cup exploits of Maradona and Messi have Argentina fans in raptures
What they're saying
"

Argentinian football fans filling the bars in Buenos Aires on Monday were able to celebrate iconic World Cup moments by two vastly different characters -- Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.It is hard to miss images of Messi in Buenos Aires -- he adorns the iconic Obelisco de Buenos Aires and in the city of Neuquen, in the province of Patagonia, there is a 26-metre high statue of him.

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days