Argentines stunned by World Cup exit

BUENOS AIRES, June 30 (Reuters) Argentines were stunned, some with tears in their eyes, in packed cafes and bars across Buenos Aires today after Argentina lost 4-2 to Germany in a penalty shootout in the World Cup quarterfinals.

Silence fell across the normally bustling Argentine capital after the match, bringing a painful end to weeks of World Cup fever that had gripped the country.

''This is bitter because there is no worse way to lose than after having had the chance to win,'' said Claudio Pan, 43, who works delivering computers.

Argentina took a 1-0 lead early in the second half, before Germany equalised in the 80th minute and sent the match into extra time and eventually a shootout.

Argentina's march through the tournament had brought renewed confidence to Argentines, who were devastated by the team's first round elimination four years ago as the country wallowed in its worst economic crisis in history.

Several hundred flag-waving fans still gathered at a downtown monument -- a towering white stone spire known as the Obelisk -- in a sombre show of appreciation for the team's performance.

One woman could be seen kicking a World Cup poster in frustration over the result.

But others said they were proud of the national team.

''We're disillusioned, but Argentina played well,'' said Ana Maria del Campo, a 46-year-old accountant.

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