Intro:

Reaction in Buenos Aires as Argentina lose World Cup final.

Script:

Argentine fans accepted their one-nil World Cup defeat against Germany on Sunday with a mix of both sadness and pride.

Thousands watched the game on a giant screen in San Martin square in central Buenos Aires.

Many burst into tears when the final whistle was blown, although fans agreed the team played well.

SOUNDBITE: (Spanish) Claudia Tejerina, Argentina supporter

"The team played very well, really, they gave it their all from the beginning. It was fantastic to see how they played. In truth, they deserved to win. It's true. I'm very happy, excited even if they've lost. But I'm happy."

The World Cup was a chance for Argentina star Lionel Messi to put himself in contention as one of the best players of all time, however still yet to lift the World Cup trophy, he's left walking in the shadow of his compatriot Diego Maradona, who led his country to the 1986 title.

The tournament has been a source of unity for Argentines in the midst of the country's economic problems though.

And on Sunday, class and political differences were set aside to cheer on their team playing in Brazil.

Argentina last won the World Cup 28 years ago in 1986, and perhaps Messi will have one last chance to lead his team to glory in four years time.