Peatonal in Mendoza, Argentina, was sealed off to pedestrian traffic, while Albiceleste football supporters filled nearly every pub, cafe, and restaurant in the city to watch the latest World Cup football action. City officials forced the venue change when they removed the public television from Peatonal after a wave of vandalism and rioting during the aftermath of the Argentina versus Greece game. Despite the celebratory atmosphere, hordes of Mendoza locals damaged several restaurants outdoor venues and broke several windows. This time around, die-hard Albiceleste football fans were left with little choice but to find a sliver of space, order a beer, and watch from cramped quarters as Argentina and Mexico faced off in the first elimination game of the tournament.

The Albiceleste cruised to another victory, led by two Carlos Tevez goals. The first was controversial – Tevez was several meters offside – but his second sealed the match in spectacular fashion. The thunderous kick, from 25 meters, drove the football into the top right corner and ended Mexico’s dim comeback chance before it began. Many deemed it the best goal of thus far in the World Cup and sent Argentina into the quarter finals riding a wave of confidence. Mexico, who became the forth team eliminated from the World Cup tournament, repeated its 2006 performance by suffering elimination at the hands of Argentina.

When the final whistle blew, the albiceleste fans hit the streets in Mendoza again, despite the heavy police barricades and limited access. While teenagers formed most of the crowd, every age group, from baby to senior, was well represented. Thousands turned up at the corner of San Martin and Peatonal, waving flags, blowing horns, and screaming in glee. Oddly, the Mendoza police kept the supporters from entering Peatonal, so the crowds roamed up and down San Martin Street, disrupting all traffic.

Here is a quick look at Travel Photographer Jeff Bartlett’s images of the celebrations:

• Travel Photographer Jeff Bartlett offers more than just images. He regularly combines his travel photography with written feature articles. He uses SEO optimized writing techniques for online material, while producing fresh copy for print publications. He can be contacted at jeff@photojbartlett.com.

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5. Landscapes of Ruta Internacional 7

Tags | Argentina, celebrating, Football, football in argentina, football in the united kingdom, Goals, latest world cup, madness, Mendoza, mendoza wine, mexico, photojournalism, public television, Soccer, South America, sport in south america, Sports, supporters, Travel, Travel Photography, victory, World Cup