Wānaka streets were alive to the sounds of cheering Argentinian fans this morning (Monday December 19) celebrating their country’s victory at the football World Cup.

A group of about 30 people paraded around town, waving flags and singing, after watching the match together at the Wānaka Districts Club.

"It was a feeling of relief and happiness all together and emotion, you know, wanting to be back in Argentina, but at the same time being here with all of those people, which most of them we didn’t know each other, it was pretty special,” Argentina expat Agustin Blanco said.

“We definitely went through all the phases and all the emotions.”

Argentina looked to be cruising to victory at two goals ahead with ten minutes to play, but back to back goals by French star Kylian Mbappè sent the match into extra time.

Locked at 3-3 at the end of extra time a penalty shoot out decided the World Cup champion for 2022 would be Argentina. 

“It was an interesting game absolutely, I think it had a bit of everything,” Agustin said.

“This is a good moment for everyone to get together, leave those everyday problems aside, and just celebrate and get together and think positively.”

Agustin said the celebrations will continue throughout the day with an Argentinian BBQ planned for later this afternoon.

This is the third time Argentina has won the Football World Cup after victories in 1978 and 1986. 

PHOTOS: Wānaka App