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.

Messi put Argentina in front once more, but Mbappe stepped up again with another penalty to seal a stunning hat-trick as it finished 3-3 and went to the dreaded penalty shootout.

But it was destined to be for Argentina and Messi as Gonzalo Montiel dispatched the winning spot-kick.

Messi lifted the trophy and was also named player of the tournament.

The celebrations continued outside the Lusail Stadium in Qatar with the Argentina squad showing off the trophy on an open-top bus.

For the French fans, there was disappointment, and President Emmanuel Macron tweeted: “Congratulations to the French team for its career and its combativeness in this World Cup.

“You have thrilled the nation and supporters around the world. Congratulations to Argentina for their victory.”

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