Argentina's national football team has generated pre-match tension ahead of their World Cup semi-final against England by singing chants referencing the Falkland Islands, which Argentina calls the Malvinas. The team set up the grudge match after defeating Switzerland 3-1 following extra-time, while England advanced by beating Norway 2-1.
The players were heard singing "For the Malvinas, For Diego, For Leo's [Messi's] last one," a reference to the 1982 conflict over the islands where 649 Argentine military personnel died. This is not the first time the team has used such chants; similar songs were heard after their previous victories in the tournament.
Another chant directed at England included the lyrics, "Anyone who doesn't jump is an Englishman," accompanied by players and fans jumping in celebration after their win against Switzerland in Kansas City. Argentina and England have a long-standing rivalry, though their most recent competitive fixture was at the 2002 World Cup.
The current team's chant is an updated version of "Muchachos, Esta Noche Me Emborracho" (Boys, Tonight I’ll Get Drunk), a popular song by Argentine ska band La Mosca. The original lyrics paid tribute to Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, and "the Malvinas lads whom I’ll never forget." The updated version for the 2026 tournament states, "I am Argentine from cradle to grave, for the Malvinas, for Diego, for Leo’s final chapter," expressing a desire for a fourth World Cup title.
Argentina's progression to the semi-finals has been marked by several late-game successes, including extra-time victories against Cape Verde and Switzerland, and a late surge against Egypt. Goals against Switzerland came from Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Lautaro Martinez.
The semi-final match is set to be a significant encounter, with analysts discussing the tactical implications. Micah Richards, speaking to the BBC, noted that while England might have a physical advantage in pace, Messi's individual brilliance poses a unique challenge. Richards highlighted Messi's spatial awareness, technique, and commanding "aura" as key factors that will test England's defense.
Richards also drew parallels between Messi's presence and that of England's Jude Bellingham, citing their shared "personality and aura" as elements that elevate their game. The upcoming semi-final will be the first time Lionel Messi has played against England in his international career.