[앵커]
The “god of football” Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team literally returned home in gold. Even though we arrived at dawn, the airport was buzzing with welcoming people. The government designated the day the national team went home as a temporary holiday.
This is reporter Park Sang-joon’s report.
[리포트]
Lionel Messi, holding the trophy in his arms, finally reveals himself.
The national team players ride in a parade vehicle with the inscription “World Champion”.
It was 3:00 in the morning, but a million people packed the street in front of the airport and enthusiastically welcomed the players who showed up.
Messi and other players responded by waving their hands and raising the championship cup.
“Messi! Messi! Messi!”
Surrounded by crowds, vehicles cannot move.
The Argentine government has designated today as a temporary holiday to celebrate the first championship in 36 years.
Alexandra Diaz / Citizen of Buenos Aires
“As an Argentine, it’s an indescribable feeling. My heart beats. It’s probably the only country that lives like this.”
Fans flocked to the sports center the day before, the home of the national team, to see the players as soon as possible.
Huge mock-up trophy hanging on the crane, Argentina flag all over itexplained.
Ayrton Cerdocas / Citizen of Buenos Aires
“We’ll spend the night here and stay until tomorrow. We won’t have to worry about work. We’ll follow the national team up to Piazza dell’Obelisco.”
Self-congratulations begin at noon local time, including an official car parade.
Argentina looks set to be a festival of fervor today.
This is Park Sang-jun from TV Chosun.
