Why Argentina’s Falklands chant matters ahead of England match

Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleThe 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 fullWhy are Argentina fans singing about England and the Falklands at the World Cup?More bulletinsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

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