If you thought the old Argentina vs England rivalry has simmered out in the forty years since that Maradona World Cup game, you would be mistaken.
We’re a day out from their semi-final clash, and a controversial fan incident has set the tone for what promises to be a fiery affair.
Fans in Escobar, Argentina, have been filmed setting the Union Jack ablaze ahead of Wednesday night’s game. The young fans can be seen jumping, dancing and singing all while the flag goes up in flames.
That’s always going to attract fury, considered one of the most disrespectful messages you can send to another nation — sports or not. The video was posted to X by Global News Monitor.
This game is going to be full of bite.
There’s bad blood between the countries that goes back a generation, and this is their first World Cup meeting since 2002. The more famous and more contentious incident came during the 1986 edition, when Maradona’s deceitful antics at the Azteca saw England knocked out.
Don’t be overly surprised to see a response from England fans, whether that be back in the UK or closer to the action in Atlanta.
READ MORE:
Powerful trio could oust Gianni Infantino as FIFA boss after World Cup
Paul Gascoigne sends message to England players ahead of World Cup semi-final against Argentina
Nike and Adidas facing $1bn-plus problem ahead of England vs Argentina in World Cup semi-final
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
