Prize in hand: Argentinian ambassador to Malaysia, Manuel Balaguer Salas (right), celebrating with guests after the World Cup win. — GLENN GUAN/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The celebrations were not just in Doha and Buenos Aires after Argentina won the World Cup for only the third time in their history.
The country’s embassy here also joined the celebrations, with a party which saw Argentinians in Malaysia joining up with Latin American, Mexican, Croatian, Colombian and Brazilian ambassadors.
There was Argentinian food, plenty of wine and much laughter and dancing, for which the South Americans are famous.
Argentina’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Manuel Balaguer Salas was thrilled over the win by Lionel Messi and Co.
“The win means so much for Argentinians as we have not won the World Cup since 1986 when Diego Maradona led us to the title,” he said.
“After that, we lost twice in the final in 1990 and 2014 (both times to Germany).
“I feel so happy that the long wait is finally over. In Argentina, football is part of our culture and DNA.
“So, there has always been a lot of pressure on the team. So, it’s great that the team won.
“It’s also fantastic for Messi to have finally won the one title that has eluded him.
“The whole country is celebrating.
“The team will be given a huge welcome when they arrive in Buenos Aires,” said a beaming Salas, who felt the team’s shock 1-2 loss against Saudi Arabia in the opening match had been a blessing in disguise.
“The loss to Saudi Arabia gave the team a jolt and made them more united and spirited than ever,” concluded Salas.
