FIFA has decided not to take disciplinary action against the Argentinian national team following a chant referencing the Falkland Islands during post-match celebrations. The players sang the song "Muchachos," which includes the line "for the Malvinas," Argentina's name for the islands, after their victory over Egypt in the last 16.
Footage of the celebration was shared online by the Argentine Football Association. The song "Muchachos" has been a popular anthem for the team throughout their 2022 World Cup campaign and has been updated for the current tournament. Its lyrics express a desire for a third World Cup title and pay tribute to Argentine football legends Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi.
The 1982 conflict over the Falkland Islands resulted in the deaths of 907 people, including 649 Argentinian and 255 British military personnel. FIFA's regulations strictly prohibit political chanting, slogans, and banners within tournament venues.
This decision comes as England player Jarell Quansah faces a two-game ban for a red card. In contrast, US striker Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension was controversially overturned for a year after a reported intervention from then-President Donald Trump, a move that drew criticism from UEFA.
Argentina's comeback victory against Egypt saw them advance in the tournament. The team may potentially face England in the semi-finals if both progress. Earlier in the tournament, England fans were reportedly denied permission to bring flags into a stadium that featured a silhouette of a soldier, a mark of respect for those who died in the Falklands War. Another group of supporters was also reportedly prevented from displaying a St George's cross due to its inclusion of a submarine image, referencing their shipbuilding town.