Putin tells Argentinian leader of his regret about the latter's absence at World Cup in Russia
JOHANNESBURG. July 26 (Interfax) - At a meeting with Argentinian President Mauricio Macri on the sidelines of a BRICS summit in Johannesburg, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed regret that the Argentinian leader was unable to attend the World Cup.
"What a pity that you could not come to our country for the soccer World Cup. But we did everything to create good conditions for your team," Putin said.
He noted the good performance of the Argentine players.
"I think you should not get too upset because after all you lost to France which has become the world champion," Putin said.
For his part Macri explained his absence by the domestic situation in his country and praised the successes of Russian soccer players.
"Your team showed that it really can fight. The forecast had been different," Macri said.