Defending World Cup champions Argentina returned to Kansas City late Tuesday evening, reaching their hotel on the Berkley Riverfront just hours after defeating Egypt to advance to Saturday night’s quarterfinal against Switzerland.
Fans were already lining up for the matchup. Argentina supporters welcomed the team back, continuing the reception they have given Messi and Argentina throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, members of the Kansas City Swiss Society gathered Tuesday and played an alphorn as excitement builds ahead of the game at Arrowhead Stadium.
One Switzerland fan described the quarterfinal as especially meaningful for the local Swiss community, saying a Swiss win would bring the society together. Another fan said it has been special to see Kansas City and Switzerland come together, tied to their connection to both the city and the Kansas City Swiss Society.
Argentina previously played in Kansas City during the group stage, when Lionel Messi scored a hat trick in a 3-0 win.