​Aside from the storied World Cup history between England and Argentina, the national teams’ meetings have had political undertones since the Falklands War in 1982.The Falklands – or “Malvinas” by their Argentine name – is an archipelago off the Atlantic coast of Argentina, but operates as a British Overseas Territory. With their sovereignty in dispute, Argentina’s military junta invaded the territory in 1982.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe British sent its fleet across the Atlantic and retook the islands after a 74-day conflict resulting in 907 deaths.Anticipating an intense crowd Wednesday in Atlanta, Argentina’s security minister Alejandra Monteoliva, said enhanced measures had been discussed at a meeting in the United States. With the historic tensions Atlanta police are upping security and plan to deploy 1,600 officers around the match.A man walks past a mural depicting late Argentine football legend Diego Maradona and Argentine soldiers in the Falklands War, in Buenos Aires, on July 14, 2026.Monteoliva said Argentina fans would not be able to take any flags or banners into the stadium which claimed sovereignty over the islands.”The entry of elements that have any type of provocative message, whether of political or racial content, is prohibited. They will not be able to enter flags or posters with that content,” Monteoliva said on local radio in Argentina.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBritain still claims sovereignty over the islands and maintains a military presence there, while Argentina continues to pursue its ambitions through diplomatic channels and international bodies including the United Nations.During the World Cup, Argentina fans and players have been singing a chant referencing the islands and the English.”We have to understand that this is a football match and that the Malvinas issue needs to be discussed elsewhere,” De Paul said, per the BBC.Ahead of the match an Argentina veterans group urged supporters to stick to soccer.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement”Sovereignty is defended in international forums through diplomacy, historical truth and the peaceful, non-negotiable claim enshrined in our national constitution,” the April 2 War Veterans Federation said in a statement.”We consider it essential to draw a clear and unwavering line between sporting passion and the national cause. The ball rolls, pride in our colors multiplies, but memory remains intact.”Contributing: ReutersThis article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What was the Falklands War? Why 1982 conflict looms over England-Argentina game