England face Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals this week, reigniting one of football's most notorious rivalries after more than 20 years without a meeting. The last time the two sides clashed was in 2002, but for fans who grew up on the iconic battles of 1998 and 2002, the intensity remains undimmed.
No match looms larger than the 1986 quarter-final, when Diego Maradona led Argentina to victory over England in what became one of the most famous games in World Cup history. Maradona’s performance that day – which included the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal – has come to define the rivalry, a moment that still sparks debate decades on.
“England face Argentina in World Cup semi-finals, their first meeting in over 20 years.”
Ahead of the semi-final, England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has been warned about the threat posed by Lionel Messi. The ‘Little Magician’, as he is known, will need to be stopped if England are to reach the final. Pickford knows the task will be tough, but England will rely on his focus against an Argentina side packed with talent.
The stakes could not be higher: a place in the World Cup final awaits the winner, and for a generation of English fans, this is a chance to rewrite the history that began with Maradona’s hand.
