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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Will Castle

Why Argentina’s Falklands chant matters ahead of England match

Argentina England Falklands (Location) Malvinas (Person)
  • The football rivalry between England and Argentina is deeply rooted in the historical and political tensions surrounding the Falkland Islands , known as the Malvinas in Argentina.
  • Argentinian football culture frequently references the Malvinas, alongside national heroes Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi , particularly in chants and celebrations.
  • The 1982 Falklands War, which resulted in 907 deaths, stemmed from Argentina's invasion of the British Overseas Territory, despite the islanders overwhelmingly identifying as British.
  • The legacy of the conflict influences match security and FIFA's “Falklands rule”, which prevents English officials from refereeing Argentina games and vice-versa.
  • Despite calls from some Argentinian veterans to separate sport from politics, the upcoming World Cup 2026 semi-final is expected to be a fiery encounter, rekindling memories of past contentious matches like the ‘Hand of God' incident.

IN FULL

Why are Argentina fans singing about England and the Falklands at the World Cup?

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