Hundreds of thousands of Argentine fans spilled on to the streets of Buenos Aires in the aftermath of the dramatic World Cup final, which they won on penalties ©Getty Images

Hundreds of thousands of Argentinian fans spilled on to the country’s streets after the nation won a dramatic FIFA World Cup final, defeating France on penalties after a match that finished 3-3 following extra-time.

The victory was Argentina’s first in the tournament since 1986, and had added poignancy as it was the first FIFA World Cup since one of the nation’s greatest footballers Diego Maradona died in November 2020.

Following the match, barbecues were fired up and steaks were grilled on the streets of Buenos Aires, with fireworks also going off in celebration.

Argentina’s President Alberto Fernández tweeted: "Thanks to the players and coaching team.

"They are the example that we should not give up.

"That we have great people and a great future."

Brazil President Lula da Silva also tweeted: "Happy with the victory of the Argentine neighbours.

"Great game from Messi, who deserved this a lot, and Di Maria.

"Congratulations to the players, the Argentina coaching staff and my friend Alberto Fernandez."

On a damp and cool night in Paris, there was a much more sombre mood as France were beaten at the final hurdle ©Getty Images
On a damp and cool night in Paris, there was a much more sombre mood as France were beaten at the final hurdle ©Getty Images

Meanwhile in Paris fans were left disappointed and reflecting on what might have been as their title defence ended at the last hurdle.

Armed police were seen using tear gas on football fans as trouble erupted in the aftermath of the match.

France’s President Emmanuel Macron, who travelled to Qatar to watch the match tweeted: "Les Bleus made us dream."

Meanwhile France’s Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne tweeted: "Thank you Les Bleus! We have trembled with you all, just until the end.

"Thank you for this journey, thank you for making us dream, thank you for this exceptional game."

After the match Macron appeared on the pitch where he was seen comforting Kylian Mbappe, who became only the second man to score a hat-trick in a World Cup final after England’s Sir Geoff Hurst in 1966.