England's World Cup semi-final against Argentina has been classified as a 'highest risk' match by security officials, with the FBI, FIFA and local police meeting over fears that historical tensions could spill over into violence.
The bitterness between the two nations transcends football. The Falklands War in 1982, where 907 people lost their lives, remains raw. Only this week, the Argentinian foreign minister restated a claim to the islands, a move quickly rebuffed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
“England's World Cup semi-final with Argentina declared 'highest risk' as Messi prepares for first meeting with Three Lions.”
In response, the Atlanta Police Department has enhanced its security posture. “Additional personnel and resources are already deployed and will continue to be strategically assigned in and around the event venues,” a police statement said, “to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.”
On the pitch, England are looking to banish the demons of the 1986 World Cup, when Diego Maradona knocked them out with the 'hand of God'. Lionel Messi – who will face England for the first time in his international career – will lead Argentina out in their darker blue kit, a superstitious choice that FIFA accepted.
Head coach Thomas Tuchel has options, with only two players unavailable: Jordan Henderson, still recovering from surgery on a broken arm suffered celebrating the win over Mexico, and suspended defender Jarell Quansah, sent off in the same game. Tuchel has been impressed by the back four that started the quarter-final win over Norway – Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi and Nico O'Reilly – and may keep them unchanged.
Declan Rice, whose preparation was disrupted by illness, trained fully on Tuesday and is expected to start. Referee Ismail Elfath has been appointed for the clash in Atlanta.
The winners will face Spain, who beat France 2-0 in the first semi-final, at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday. England head into the game knowing that another chapter in this fierce rivalry is about to be written.
