[PHOTOS] Argentina triumphantly returns home with World Cup trophy

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Argentina’s World Cup-winning team was met with a hero’s welcome in the early hours of Tuesday morning in the city of Buenos Aires.

Following a triumphant performance in Qatar, the squad led by captain Lionel Messi was greeted by massive crowds who lined the streets in excitement and cheers as their heroes returned.

Messi was the first person to step off the plane, holding the gold trophy aloft in front of the crowds.

A red carpet was then rolled out in front of the triumphant team, who were greeted by reporters, officials, and a live band.

Then they departed the airport, traveling on an open-top bus to their Football Association’s headquarters.

The main celebration is scheduled to be at the capital city’s Obelisk monument at midday (15:00 GMT) on Tuesday.

The Argentine government said the day would be a bank holiday so fans “can express their deepest joy for the national team”.

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