.png)
.png)
Many football fans tuned in on Sunday as Spain and Argentina went head-to-head in a tense FIFA World Cup final. After 90 minutes failed to separate the two sides, the match went into extra time, where Spain found the decisive breakthrough to secure a dramatic 1-0 victory. Moments after the final whistle, celebratory scenes unfolded both on the pitch and across Spain, with fans pouring into the streets to celebrate their country's latest international triumph.
The celebrations weren't confined to Spain, though. Across the UK, many Brits were also rejoicing. While some were genuinely backing La Roja, for others the victory felt like sweet revenge after England's heartbreaking semi-final exit at the hands of Argentina just days earlier.
Social media quickly filled with tongue-in-cheek celebrations, memes and trolling aimed at the defeated South American side. Some supporters even sent voice messages directly to Argentina stars, including captain Lionel Messi and midfielder Enzo Fernández, mocking the team's defeat.
"Mr Messi, call me Captain Obvious mate, but you lost," one social media user joked in a voice message sent to the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner.
Another viral clip showed a man cycling past a group of devastated Argentina supporters in London while repeatedly chanting "Lamine Yamal" and laughing, referencing the teenage Spanish star as the fans looked on in disappointment.
England's semi-final defeat had clearly left a lasting impression. After the Three Lions were knocked out 2-1 by Argentina, many English supporters admitted they had become "hate watchers" for the final on July 19, tuning in with one hope: to see Argentina lose.
One player who appeared to receive particular criticism online was Enzo Fernández. During England's semi-final clash on July 15, the Chelsea midfielder scored a late equaliser to cancel out England's lead before Argentina eventually went on to win, leaving him firmly out of favour with many English fans. Sunday's final only intensified the online celebrations after Fernández was shown a red card, with countless social media users sharing clips of the dismissal as one of their favourite moments from the match.
For some supporters, Spain's victory represented more than simply crowning a new world champion. Many described Argentina's defeat as a "restoration of faith" in the tournament, while others said it finally brought closure after England's painful exit.
Although the Three Lions ultimately finished third and fell short of lifting the trophy, many Brits appeared more than happy to celebrate Spain's success as if it were a victory of their own.
