On July 21, Beijing time, the families of the Argentine players gave interviews after returning to Argentina. Among them, Paredes' mother , Miriam Benitez, was visibly emotional during the interview.
Paredes' mother, Miriam Benitez, spoke to the media at Ezeiza International Airport after returning from New Jersey on Monday: "I am very proud. I love each and every one of them. Paredes is sad, but also happy because they have given their all."
Paredes' mother was visibly emotional, choking up at one point while thanking the fans for their support of the Argentine team despite the loss. When asked if the players were aware of the support they received from Argentina after the final, she replied, "I think that's what's most valuable about us; we didn't pay attention to the criticism. Let the others keep talking."
She also revealed that Paredes played with a fractured rib in the last three matches of the tournament. "He had a minor injury, but it's nothing. I know what the Argentine national team means to my son, and I know he will recover for this moment."
Paredes' sister, Barbara Paredes, also gave an interview to the media, emphasizing the team's journey in this tournament. "Everyone is happy. We didn't expect to get this far. Beating England is already a remarkable achievement. We don't have a fourth star, but Malvinas belongs to us."
As time went on, the families of other Argentine team members also arrived at the airport. Among them was Raul, the father of Enzo Fernandez, who was sent off in the 93rd minute of the final after receiving two yellow cards.
“I didn’t get a chance to speak to him. I didn’t say anything to him after the game. I saw that the players were exhausted. As a father, I’m proud. I guess he’ll be upset about being sent off. I hope Scaloni can continue coaching.”
Nicolás Tagliafico's brother also spoke, praising the team's efforts throughout the World Cup: "The kids have given their all. We are very happy. His performance did not surprise me at all."
When asked about the full-back's physical condition, he explained that his initial concerns quickly dissipated: "We were worried because we didn't know if it was a serious injury. Later I realized it was a muscle problem."
He also revealed that he and Tagliafico exchanged several messages after the final. "I know everyone has always liked Nico, but after yesterday's game, that love seemed to completely erupt. I think he showed the true nature of this team," he said. He then added, "I exchanged a few messages with him, and he told me they were all very sad."
When asked if Tagliafico might participate in another World Cup, he smiled and replied, "Hopefully."
On the other hand, Martin's father also praised the Argentine team's performance despite the defeat: "Despite this result, I leave with joy seeing everything these kids did."
Nicolás González's partner, Ludmila Isabella, was almost overwhelmed with emotion. "He gave it his all. I don't want to talk about it because I'll cry. We haven't recovered yet, but I'm thrilled and proud of everything they've accomplished."
Nico Paz's sister also spoke briefly: "I didn't get a chance to speak to him. We are very excited." A moment later, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder's father, Pablo, added: "The final was tough. Spain played better and were better overall. We played the game we were supposed to play, but we were unlucky and conceded a goal in the end. It's a source of pride for Nico to be a member of the Argentine national team."
Later, Lisandro Martinez's mother, Silvina, commented on Scaloni's team's performance throughout the World Cup. "We all cried for them, for the heights these kids have reached. That's just how Argentinians are, they love football so much."
Giuliano Simeone's brother, Gianluca, praised the Atletico Madrid right winger's contributions. "I spoke to him. He told me he was happy to beat England and reach the final. We are happy for him. He deserves it all. He has always worked very hard."
