The World Cup atmosphere is heating up, but not just because of the match. As Argentina prepares to face England in the 2026 World Cup semifinals, a decision by Javier Milei’s government sparked controversy: it endorsed the ban on flags and shirts with references to the Falkland Islands during the game.
Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva confirmed the measure after a meeting at the International Police Cooperation Center in Virginia, alongside the FBI, FIFA, and British authorities. There, the match was classified as «high risk» and an operation of 1,600 officers was arranged to maintain order.
Various opposition sectors rejected the decision. «It’s a shame that the Argentine government accepts conditions that limit our sovereignty,» fired an opposition leader, who demanded explanations. The restriction affects fans who planned to bring symbols alluding to the Malvinas cause, a sensitive issue in the country.
Meanwhile, coach Lionel Scaloni tries to keep the focus on sports. In a press conference, he referred to the viralization of a video where he supposedly discussed changes with Leandro Paredes during the match against Switzerland. «The translation is a bit strange, odd. It’s wrong because it says if I put in or take out a player, and that definitely didn’t happen,» clarified the coach.
Wednesday’s match carries enormous symbolic weight. 40 years after Diego Maradona’s «Goal of the Century» and «Hand of God,» Argentina and England meet again in a World Cup. The winner will face Spain, which already secured its place in the final after beating France 2-0 in Dallas.
The duel against the English promises to be intense. England coach Thomas Tuchel described the Albiceleste as «experienced and competitive,» but warned: «All teams in the world are beatable.» Argentina arrives after a tough 3-1 win against Switzerland, while England beat Norway 2-1.
On the streets of Cabildo and Juramento, the quintessential World Cup neighborhood, a festive atmosphere is already in the air. Businesses are preparing: some will close during the match, others will open with giant screens. «A lot of people come. Some stand outside watching through the window. It’s exploding,» said Ariel Fernández, an employee of a pizzeria decorated with Argentine flags.
The controversy over the ban on Malvinas symbols overshadows the football fervor. How far is Milei’s government willing to go in the name of security? The opposition promises to take the issue to Congress. Meanwhile, the Argentine national team seeks a place in the final, and the fans, to defend their right to express themselves.
Watch the 2026 World Cup in the best quality
These are the most sought-after TVs to watch the National Team. All with 12 interest-free installments:
- Smart TV Kanji 32″ LED HD – From $120,000 in 12 interest-free installments (VAFTS9-89J3)
- Smart TV LG 43″ 4K UHD WebOS – From $450,000 in 12 interest-free installments (VAFTS9-WXW9)
- Smart TV Samsung 50″ 4K UHD – From $600,000 in 12 interest-free installments (VAFTS9-VVE0)
Approximate prices. 12 interest-free installments subject to each seller. Search for the codes on Mercado Libre.
che estos gor*s pro yanquis nos quieren borrar la memoria para mi las malvinas son argentinas carajo prohibir nuestra bandera es una traicion milei y su manga de vendepatria se arrodillan ante los ingleses viva la soberania mierda firmado el pelado maldito
para mi esto es una traicion de mierda del gobierno de milei se venden a los ingleses piratas como van a prohibir la bandera de malvinas q es nuestra carajo viva la patria y a cagarlos a todos firmado el gaucho malvinero