Falklands chants and historic World Cup bitterness reignite ahead of a blockbuster clash between the Three Lions and reigning champions Argentina
The bitter rivalry between England and Argentina has erupted again ahead of their World Cup semi-final after footage emerged showing Argentine fans celebrating as they set fire to a Union Jack.
The video, circulating online, shows supporters chanting anti-English songs as tensions rise before the two nations meet for a place in the final.
Political references have also entered the build-up, with the long-running dispute over the Falkland Islands — known as the Malvinas in Argentina — once again becoming part of the atmosphere surrounding the fixture.
Argentina players were previously filmed singing: “For the Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s last one”
after their quarter-final victory, referencing the Falklands, Argentine football legend Diego Maradona and captain Lionel Messi.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni has attempted to cool tensions, insisting the semi-final should be treated purely as a football match.
England have also avoided being drawn into the political row as Thomas Tuchel’s side prepares for one of the biggest games in international football. But the history between the nations ensures emotions will be running high.
Few football rivalries carry the same weight.
Em Escobar cidade da Argentina, localizada na província de Buenos Aires, durante um 'banderazo' um grupo de torcedores argentinos queimaram uma bandeira da Grã-Bretanha pensando ser da Inglaterra. pic.twitter.com/2eS3nbwNpe
— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) July 14, 2026
The 1986 World Cup quarter-final remains one of the most controversial matches in history, when Maradona’s infamous “Hand of God” goal helped eliminate England.
Twelve years later, England suffered another painful defeat against Argentina in France, losing on penalties after David Beckham was sent off.
England gained some revenge in 2002 when Beckham converted a penalty to secure a famous group-stage victory.
Now, decades of footballing battles, political disputes and national pride will collide once again.
Argentina have also been given permission by FIFA to wear their navy-blue away kit — the same colour linked with some of their most famous victories over England.
With a World Cup final place at stake, the latest chapter in one of football’s fiercest rivalries promises to be anything but ordinary.
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