​First, Argentina soccer ripped away the hopes and dreams of a nation and prevented England from securing its first World Cup in nearly seven decades. Then, they waded into geopolitical discourse.Wednesday’s World Cup semifinal between Argentina and England saw the Three Lions carry a 1-0 lead deep into the second half. But coach Thomas Tuchel’s prevent defense worked out pretty much exactly the way it does in American football. Lionel Messi and company kept the Brits on their heels for 40 minutes, eventually breaking through for the equalizer in the 85th minute and eventual game-winner two minutes into stoppage time. Messi, playing in potentially his final World Cup, assisted on each goal.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIt wasn’t enough just to beat a longtime rival on the pitch. Argentina then made the case to bring the Islas Malvinas — better known as the Falkland Islands, a self-governed archipelago off the southern coast of Argentina under British control — back to the local nation that claims sovereignty over it.Players on the field placed a banner on the pitch that said “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” — “The Malvinas are Argentine.” It was a statement that left no doubt about how the history of the two nations played a role in Wednesday’s game.July 15, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.; A banner displaying a message referencing The Falkland Islands is seen on the pitch. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn ImagesArgentine forces invaded the islands in 1982, leading to an undeclared war that lasted a little more than two months and ended with the United Kingdom retaining control of the archipelago. In 2013, residents voted 1,513 to three to remain an overseas territory rather than pursue sovereignty. Tensions have died down between the two nations since. Even so, the past clearly has not been forgotten — as shown Wednesday in Atlanta.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThis article originally appeared on For The Win: Argentina wants the Falkland Islands after shattering England’s World Cup dream