FIFA has yet to comment on Argentina's players referencing the Falkland Islands in post-match celebrations following their quarter-final victory over Switzerland. Footage shared online by the Argentina Football Association showed players singing the song 'Muchachos,' which includes the line "para las Malvinas," Argentina's name for the South Atlantic islands.
Defender Nicolas Otamendi, 38, later shared an Instagram video of himself and teammates singing the same anthem after their extra-time win. The Falklands, invaded by Argentina in 1982, remain a sensitive political issue.
Miami Presence and Travel Mishaps
The FA's friends and family section in Miami saw notable attendees, including Love Island presenter Maya Jama and Manchester City chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak. Al Mubarak, who was also expected at the semi-final, may have experienced divided loyalties, with Manchester City talisman Erling Haaland having a difficult match for Norway.
Beyond the pitch, a reporter experienced an unexpected introduction to Miami's reputation as a party capital. Upon arriving at their South Beach hotel, the correspondent mistook a bottle of high-proof tequila for water, leading to a spluttering reaction. Hotel insiders reported the sound reached neighboring rooms. The reporter informed reception of the unusual placement of the liquor, requesting no charge for opening it, which was granted. The receptionist reportedly mentioned a previous guest had filled their coffee machine with tequila.
Incidents involving taxis also occurred. One journalist required medical tests and hospital treatment after being involved in a hit-and-run incident while in a late-night Uber in Kansas City, shortly after England's win in Mexico City. The reporter was, however, well enough to travel to Miami for the quarter-final. In a separate incident following England's victory over Norway, two other reporters from the same newspaper were in an Uber that executed a dangerous U-turn and collided with another vehicle. Neither reporter required medical attention.
Sponsorship and Player Movements
Paddy Power is expected to continue its humorous anti-English video campaign following England's progression. Previously, Scottish figures Graeme Souness, Gordon Strachan, and Charlie Nicholas appeared in advertisements pretending to be patriotic Mexicans and Norwegians during England's World Cup run. It is understood the Irish bookmaker filmed versions featuring Switzerland and Argentina ahead of the semi-final, with speculation that these may appear in French or Spanish disguises.
In other news, former Manchester United player Juan Mata has joined Kansas City-based venue designers Populous. Mata will serve as a special advisor on football and training for the firm, which was a finalist in the bidding process for plans to develop a new 100,000-seat stadium.