Argentina's dramatic 3-1 victory over Switzerland to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinals sparked massive celebrations across the country, but the festivities were also marked by tragedy. Authorities confirmed that at least two people died between Saturday night and early Sunday during incidents that occurred while the match was being played and in the celebrations that followed.

As millions of fans took to the streets to celebrate Lionel Scaloni's side reaching the final four, emergency services responded to multiple medical emergencies and violent incidents that overshadowed what should have been a night of nationwide celebration.

One Medical Emergency and One Fatal Shooting

One of the fatalities occurred in Buenos Aires, where a 51-year-old man suffered a heart attack while watching the quarterfinal between Argentina and Switzerland. Emergency responders also treated at least six other people during the match, all of whom were transported to local hospitals and were later reported to be out of danger.

The second death took place in San Francisco, in Argentina's Córdoba province, where a 20-year-old man was shot multiple times in the back while celebrating in the streets. The shooting caused panic among hundreds of supporters gathered in the area.

According to preliminary reports, the suspect fled through the crowd immediately after the attack. Investigators believe the incident was likely the result of a personal dispute rather than being directly related to the World Cup celebrations. Authorities also confirmed that the victim had recently been released on parole while serving a sentence for aggravated robbery.

Celebrations Also Ended in Clashes at the Obelisk

The celebrations also turned tense in downtown Buenos Aires, particularly around the iconic Obelisk, where thousands of supporters gathered after the final whistle. As the night progressed, city police launched an operation to disperse groups that remained in the area.

Officers fired rubber bullets while clearing sections of Avenida 9 de Julio after isolated disturbances, although no serious injuries were officially reported during the operation.

Attention now shifts back to the field as Argentina prepares to face England for a place in the World Cup final. Beyond its enormous sporting significance, the matchup revives one of international football's most historic rivalries, shaped by unforgettable World Cup encounters and the broader history shared between the two nations.

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