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Spanish pilot tricks Argentina fans on flight World Cup

Published 21 July 2026

A Spanish airline pilot has triggered a social media storm and drawn criticism from Argentine media after tricking a plane full of Argentina football supporters into believing their team had won the World Cup before revealing Spain’s victory. The incident occurred on a flight shortly after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final on July 20, 2026.

Video of the prank shows passengers wearing Argentina shirts listening as the pilot addresses the cabin. He described the match as fiercely contested and going to extra time, noting that only one team could win. He then said, "We wanted to congratulate our Argentinian friends." The cabin erupted in cheers and celebrations, with fans leaping from their seats under the assumption Lionel Messi’s side had retained the title. Moments later, the pilot delivered the true result: "Spain has won." The aircraft immediately fell silent.

The footage has generated strong reactions, particularly in Argentina. Several media outlets condemned the pilot’s actions. The newspaper La Voz del Interior described the incident as a "sick joke," recounting how a false result sparked celebrations before the truth was revealed. Another Argentine...

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