​Argentina fans are not underrating England ahead of their World Cup semi-final in Atlanta next week. Argentina reached the semis with a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Switzerland after extra time on Saturday, a performance that left plenty of room for both caution and belief. England, meanwhile, also needed extra time to oust Norway in the quarter-finals, with Jude Bellingham striking twice in a 2-1 win.
Lionel Messi is set to face England for the first time in his international career, a clash that many expect to be a blockbuster. The two sides have been rivals since the Falklands War of 1982, a conflict over the British Overseas Territory that still colors many memories on both sides. While the dispute lingers in the background for some, Argentina’s players and supporters have not forgotten the history; celebrations often feature songs about England, underscoring a long-standing animosity that has complicated but also enriched this fixture.
Yet, a growing note of respect for Thomas Tuchel’s side has appeared among several Argentina fans ahead of the meeting. Argentina and England’s routes to the World Cup semi-finals have mirrored one another in some ways, with both teams leaning on grit and character rather than sheer technical brilliance at times. Following England’s win over Norway, Argentinian supporters have acknowledged the challenge awaiting them in Atlanta next week.
“The whole England team is very strong,” one Argentine fan commented. “Yeah, we have to worry about Harry Kane,” another added. “Bellingham and Kane are at a very high level,” offered a third, while a fourth declared, “Jude Bellingham is the best.”
Indeed, Kane and Bellingham have been England’s standout performers in the tournament, contributing a combined total of 11 goals. Nevertheless, several Argentina supporters feel confident about their side’s chances of defeating England for a third time at a World Cup. “I’m not going to come on the BBC and tell you we’re not going to win the game. Of course, we’re going to win the game,” one fan insisted. Three others chimed in with optimistic proclamations: “England, easy peasy,” “We’re going to get a win,” and “Oh, we feel confident.”
Another supporter highlighted the importance of Argentina’s heart, suggesting that it could propel them to consecutive World Cup finals. “They have to worry about the Argentine heart. You have to worry about that,” she proclaimed. In this sentiment, a sense of pride in national identity and resilience sits at the core of the Argentine fan experience, even as admiration for England’s quality grows.
As the teams prepare to meet, the mood among Argentina’s players and fans is a blend of caution, respect, and a stubborn belief in their own strengths. The semi-final promise is irresistible: Messi’s impending duel with England could define the next chapter in their storied rivalry, while the broader contest between two footballing cultures adds an element of historical significance to what already shapes up as a high-stakes, memorable clash.