The FBI and Atlanta police are reportedly preparing for a potentially volatile showdown rooted in political and football rivalry.
Atlanta is beefing up security ahead of Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final match between England and Argentina, media reports.
Consultations were held between FIFA, the FBI, and local law enforcement amid concerns that the long-standing rivalry between the two nations could increase the risk of clashes between supporters. Atlanta police have announced an increased presence throughout the city, including near Mercedes-Benz Stadium, team hotels and popular fan gathering areas.
Officials have also established separate stadium entrances and special fan areas for supporters of each team. Although the tickets have not been fully allocated, England and Argentina’s official allocation of around 8,000 seats each will be at opposite ends of the pitch. Officials expect tens of thousands of supporters from both countries to descend on Atlanta for the match.
The competition extends beyond football. Tensions between Britain and Argentina were exacerbated by the Falklands War of 1982, when the two countries fought a ten-week dispute over the South Atlantic islands, known in Argentina as Islas Malvinas. Although the meetings between the two national teams carried a lot of weight for a long time, the conflict provided the political and emotional atmosphere that followed.
No match better encapsulates that history than the team’s quarter-final at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico. Argentina captain Diego Maradona scored twice in the 2-1 victory, first heading the ball into the ‘Hand of God’ goal before scoring one of the biggest goals in football history, beating five England players and goalkeeper Peter Shilton to score.
Maradona later said the first goal was scored “a little with the head of Maradona and a little with the hand of God.” His second goal is considered one of the best ever scored in the tournament.
Wednesday’s semi-final is also more important because it could be Messi’s last meeting with England on football’s biggest stage. The Argentina captain, who led his country to the 2022 title, is looking to play in another final as he completes one of the game’s greatest careers.
Both camps have tried to ease tensions before the start. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford have urged fans to focus on the game, stressing that competition should remain on the field.
