Tensions escalated in Atlanta ahead of the World Cup semi-final match between England and Argentina. Reports indicate that groups of Argentina fans were involved in altercations, including throwing objects, just hours before the anticipated clash. The incident occurred on the streets of Atlanta as the city prepared for the high-stakes game.
Footage circulated online showed Argentina supporters brawling with each other. Various items, such as bottles and furniture, were reportedly thrown during the confrontations. The disturbances took place last night, the day before the semi-final fixture.
The exact cause of the incident remains unclear, but it involved two groups of Argentina fans. Witnesses described one group appearing to retreat, only to then pick up more objects to throw. Local police intervened to separate the groups, which subsequently dispersed. It is not known if any arrests were made in connection with the unrest.
Pre-match atmosphere and team news
The semi-final match, which will determine who faces Spain in the final on Sunday, July 19, was expected to be a heated encounter. The historical rivalry between England and Argentina, particularly concerning the Falkland Islands, added to the intensity surrounding the game. The Falklands War in 1982, which lasted 74 days and resulted in the deaths of 907 people, including 649 Argentine military personnel, 255 from Britain, and three Falkland Islanders, continues to be a point of contention. Argentina maintains its claim over the archipelago, located 300 miles off its east coast, a sentiment often reflected in the country’s cultural expressions, including football.
During the national anthems, Argentina fans loudly booed “God Save the King” and chanted “whoever doesn’t jump is English.” England supporters responded by jeering Argentina‘s anthem. This exchange set a combative tone for the semi-final. Former England striker Alan Shearer, commenting on the match, noted the palpable dislike between the two sides.
Adding to the pre-match rhetoric, Argentina‘s vice-president reportedly referred to England as “invaders” and “usurping pirates.” However, some voices, such as the April 2 War Veterans Federation, called for the Falklands issue to be separated from the sporting event, stating that “Sport is not war.”
Squad selections for the semi-final
Ahead of the match, England manager Thomas Tuchel announced his team selection, making three changes for the semi-final. Morgan Rogers was given a starting position, replacing Noni Madueke on the right side of the attack. Full-backs Reece James and Djed Spence were also brought into the starting lineup. The central defensive partnership of John Stones and Marc Guehi remained unchanged, with Ezri Konsa and Nico O’Reilly not starting.
Declan Rice started in midfield despite having been substituted at half-time in the previous game against Norway due to illness picked up in Mexico. His inclusion was a notable point of interest for England fans.
Argentina‘s squad featured five Premier League players in their starting eleven for the semi-final. These included Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, Manchester United‘s Lisandro Martinez, Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez, and Liverpool‘s Alexis Mac Allister. All five players were part of the defending champions’ lineup for the crucial match against England on July 15.
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Source: dailystar.co.uk
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Joel Kavanagh is a Sports News Writer at News-GB. He started on a Midlands sports desk. He focuses on rugby union, golf and boxing and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Journalism from De Montfort University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Leicester, he plays amateur rugby and follows the fight calendar. “In sport news, the first ten minutes decide everything.”