Argentinians Flock to Canasvieiras Beach in Florianópolis to Feel at Home During World Cup Semifinal

Argentinians residing in and visiting Florianópolis, Brazil, gathered in the Canasvieiras neighborhood to watch the World Cup semifinal match between Argentina and England. Canasvieiras, located on the northern coast of Santa Catarina, is known as the most "Argentine" area outside of Argentina, attracting a significant number of tourists and residents from the neighboring country. During the World Cup, the neighborhood becomes even more vibrant with decorations in the national colors of light blue and white, and Spanish often becoming the predominant language. Many Argentinians choose Canasvieiras to feel a sense of community and connection to their homeland while supporting their team, led by Lionel Messi. Antonella Meneguzzi, a 25-year-old who has lived in Florianópolis for three years, expressed her desire to be around fellow Argentinians for the crucial match. She conveyed a mix of optimism and realism about the game's outcome, stating, "Hopefully we win. We'll give our best. But if we don't win, that's okay too." The beach and local establishments in Canasvieiras have become a focal point for Argentinian expatriates and tourists, who are often seen with traditional mate gourds and jerseys from the national team or popular Argentine football clubs like River Plate and Boca Juniors. The increased activity in Canasvieiras on this particular day highlighted the neighborhood's role as a cultural hub for Argentinians abroad during major sporting events.