Rival angered as Argentina announces national holiday to mark 2026 World Cup victory.
On 6 August 2026, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) unanimously resolved to designate 15 July each year as "Argentina National Team Day" to commemorate the "Albiceleste's" victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final.
In that match, Argentina trailed 0-1 until the 85th minute but managed to turn the game around to win 2-1 against England, securing their place in the World Cup final for the second consecutive time, despite losing 0-1 to Spain in extra time.
Following a Wednesday executive committee meeting, the Argentine Football Association issued a statement saying, "This date (15 July) was chosen to honor the historic and great victory of the Albiceleste team over England in the 2026 World Cup semi-final."
"Led by Lionel Scaloni, the team was down by one goal to England, but goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez reversed the scoreline, sparking nationwide celebrations with many people taking to the streets to rejoice."
This victory reignited claims over the Falkland Islands, as after the match against England, Argentine national players displayed signs on the field stating "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Falkland Islands belong to Argentina).
Argentina refers to the Falkland Islands as "Islas Malvinas," but this gesture caused significant outrage in England, prompting the UK government to call on FIFA to investigate the matter.
FIFA has initiated disciplinary investigations against Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala for assault. Additionally, the Argentine Football Association is under scrutiny for politicizing the Falkland Islands issue, as well as allegations of racial discrimination and inappropriate chants.
