Argentina is facing a possible fine from FIFA following their World Cup semi-final win against England on July 15, 2026. The controversy arose after Argentine players celebrated their 3-2 victory with a banner endorsing Argentina's claim to the Falkland Islands.

Before the match, Argentina's manager Lionel Scaloni stated he would not mix football and politics, emphasizing respect for the sensitive history surrounding the Falklands conflict. "I can't mix things up, especially out of respect for what happened so many years ago," Scaloni said, describing it as "a very sad period in our history."

However, Argentina's vice-president Victoria Villarruel highlighted a chant sung by players after their last-16 win over Egypt, which referenced the Falklands and Argentine football legends Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi. Villarruel wrote on social media platform X, "I'm not going to be politically correct - against the English, it's always something more. It's the Malvinas, it's Diego, it's Leo's last one, and it's about putting the invaders in their place. Long live Argentina! Because until our very last breath, we will reclaim what is ours!"

The semi-final match, marked by late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez that secured Argentina's win, was conducted under heightened security due to the historical tensions between Argentina and England.

Sources