FIFA World Cup final: Spain beat Argentina as Kerala hosts screenings and rallies

Spain's 1-0 win over Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final drew huge attention in Kerala. Many fans backed Argentina and felt disappointed after the result. Still, the match created strong public interest across the state. Politicians and football supporters posted messages praising the new champions soon after the final ended.

Large groups gathered at public screening venues across Kerala to watch the final. Women and children were also seen in the crowds. Spain substitute Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute. The goal decided the match in the US. After the final, Spain supporters held motorbike and car rallies.

FIFA World Cup final holiday for educational institutions

The state government announced a holiday on Monday for educational institutions. The decision followed the final ending early in the morning.

Many leaders tracked the match through the night. They shared reactions online soon after Spain sealed the trophy with the late extra-time goal.

FIFA World Cup final reactions from Kerala leaders

Chief Minister VD Satheesan congratulated Spain in a Facebook post around 4 am. Satheesan described the title as deserved. "A well-earned victory. Congratulations, Spain!\" Satheesan said in the short message. Leader of Opposition in Kerala Assembly Pinarayi Vijayan also congratulated Spain after the match.

Vijayan wrote that football unites millions across borders through shared emotion. Vijayan said another memorable World Cup had ended after bringing fans joy. Vijayan congratulated Spain for strong displays and attractive football. Vijayan said Spain had again shown authority in world football. Vijayan also praised Argentina's spirited run to the final.

State Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala congratulated Spain after the win. Chennithala had earlier said he was a Brazil fan. Chennithala added he would support Argentina in the final. Chennithala said Spain dominated the final and saluted the performance. Chennithala also praised Argentina's determination until the end.

Chennithala said football teaches brotherhood and togetherness beyond results. Chennithala called the sport a shared human heritage. Chennithala said he hoped football would keep inspiring people worldwide. \"Long live the spirit of life,\" Chennithala added. Other ministers also posted their messages after Spain lifted the trophy.

State Higher Education Minister Roji M John, an Argentina supporter, congratulated Spain. John said Spain deserved the title after leading the tournament from start. John said Spain won a second World Cup after 16 years. \"Congratulations, Spain,\" John said in the post. John also praised Argentina and looked ahead to 2030.

John wrote, \"We shall meet again in 2030,\" referring to the next contest. State Excise Minister M Liju also congratulated Spain. Liju said Spain showed dominance across 120 minutes of play. Liju said the win reflected Spain's quality and all-round display. Liju added he would back Argentina at the next World Cup.

State Forest Minister Shibu Baby John called Spain's victory well deserved. Kerala BJP President Rajeev Chandrasekhar also congratulated Spain. Chandrasekhar called it a heartbreaking moment for Argentina. Chandrasekhar said Spain's win showed what happens when youth are trusted with responsibility. Chandrasekhar praised Argentina for fighting until the end.

CPIM leader V Sivankutty called the result a Spanish Spring. Sivankutty shared a photo of watching La Roja lift the trophy on television. Minister A P Anil Kumar, an Argentina supporter, joined a public screening. Anil Kumar told reporters Argentina failed expectations. Anil Kumar said Emiliano Martinez prevented a heavier defeat.

State Tourism Minister PC Vishnunadh attended a screening in Argentina's jersey. Vishnunadh said he would keep supporting Argentina despite defeat. CPIM general secretary M A Baby watched at a live screening in New Delhi. Baby said Spain controlled possession and created more chances. Baby said Argentina's comeback never came and questioned Lionel Messi's display.

Baby said, \"Spain completely dominated the contest. It was total dominance by Spain in terms of possession and chance creation. We expected a comeback from Argentina. But we dont know what happened to the Argentina team and Lionel Messi. Spain deserved the victory,\" reflecting the mood among many Argentina supporters after the final.

With inputs from PTI