Argentina have begun the mind games ahead of their World Cup semi-final against England by requesting – and being granted – permission to wear their dark blue second strip, even though they were already listed as the away team.
The holders are leaning on history: two of their three World Cup wins over England came in blue. In 1986, Diego Maradona’s Hand of God and mesmerising solo goal eliminated England in Mexico City; in 1998, a penalty shootout victory in Saint-Étienne followed a 2-2 draw. The two times Argentina wore their sky blue home kit against England at World Cups – 1966 and 2002 – they lost.
“Argentina will wear dark blue against England in the semi-final, recalling 1986 and 1998 victories.”
FIFA have confirmed that England will wear white and Argentina their vibrant dark blue and black top in Atlanta on Wednesday. At this tournament, Argentina have worn their home jersey in five of their six matches, all victories, and their away kit only once – a 3-1 win over Jordan in Dallas.
Statistics from the tournament so far reveal a tightly matched contest. Both sides have conceded six goals, with England giving up the most chances and Argentina the least successful at keeping opponents out. England have been the less creative of the four semi-finalists but have scored more than two goals per game thanks to clinical finishing from Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. Argentina have been the most clinical, converting 18% of chances, and scored 17 goals overall – the most of any side.
The other semi-final between France and Spain promises a contrast in styles. Spain have been the most solid defensively, conceding only one goal, while France have the joint-most shots and highest expected goals per 90 minutes. The winners will meet in Sunday’s final.
