Millions of Argentinians breathed a collective sigh of relief after their side’s dramatic World Cup win – before letting loose on the streets of Buenos Aires in celebration.
Maradona was the hero in 1986 when the South Americans last brought the coveted trophy home.
And 36 years on it was Lionel Messi’s turn.
Playing in what was probably his final World Cup, the talisman scored twice – once in normal time, and a second in extra time – as well as netting in the nail-biting penalty shootout.
Millions of Argentines cried, yelled and hugged as they followed the game – most chanting the name of their captain.
And the man, who many consider to be the world’s greatest player, did not disappoint.
The celebrations went on through the night in the capital and in cities and towns around the country.
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Argentina beat defending champions France 4-2 on penalties after drawing 3-3 after extra time in front of an 88,000-strong crowd in Qatar.
However, a late brace from France hero Kylian Mbappe saw the game go into extra-time.
