Argentina's national football team players have reignited historical tensions with England by singing anti-English chants, referencing the Falkland Islands, following their World Cup quarter-final victory against Switzerland. The team secured their spot in the semi-finals after a 3-1 extra-time win, setting up a match against England, who also advanced after defeating Norway.
The players were heard singing a popular fan chant, "Muchachos," which has been updated for the current tournament. The updated lyrics include the line, "For the Malvinas, For Diego, For Leo's final chapter," referencing the disputed Falkland Islands (known as Las Malvinas in Argentina), football legend Diego Maradona, and current star Lionel Messi. The song also expresses a desire for Argentina to win a fourth World Cup title and avenge a past tournament loss.
The Malvinas refers to the Falkland Islands, where a conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentine military personnel in 1982. This historical context adds a layer of animosity to the upcoming semi-final.
Another chant heard from players and fans declared, "Anyone who doesn't jump is an Englishman," accompanied by vigorous jumping. Fans also reportedly claimed that England is "scared" of the Argentine team.
Argentina's progression to the semi-finals has been marked by late-game heroics, including extra-time victories against Cape Verde and Switzerland, and a late surge against Egypt in the round of 16. Goals against Switzerland were scored by Alexis Mac Allister, Julian Alvarez, and Lautaro Martinez.
This semi-final marks a significant encounter for Lionel Messi, who has played over 200 caps for Argentina but has never faced England in his career. Analysts note that while England may possess superior physical endurance, Messi's individual brilliance and "aura" could be decisive factors. England and Argentina have a long-standing rivalry, but their last competitive meeting was in the 2002 World Cup group stages, which England won 1-0.