A lone Argentina fan was rescued by police from a large crowd of England supporters in central London after Argentina knocked England out of the World Cup. The incident occurred near Piccadilly Circus on Wednesday night, following Argentina's 2-1 victory over the Three Lions in the semi-finals.
Police Intervention at Piccadilly Circus
Footage shared on social media shows dozens of Metropolitan Police officers at the scene trying to maintain order. A large group of officers surrounded the young fan, who was wearing an Argentina shirt with Messi on the back, and escorted him into a police van. The fan was jeered by onlookers as officers brought him to the vehicle, and at least one object appeared to be hurled in his direction. Police eventually cleared a path through the crowd for the van to drive away, as dozens held phones aloft to film the moment amid chaotic scenes.
The Metropolitan Police often separate football fans from different teams as a precaution, and no further incident was reported. There is no suggestion of wrongdoing by the fan or those pictured.
England's World Cup Heartbreak
It was a night of agony for England fans in London as their hopes that the Three Lions could end 60 years of World Cup hurt were dashed. Supporters of Thomas Tuchel's side had been optimistic that they could beat the defending champions, despite their concern that captain Lionel Messi could get in the way. The joyous mood after Anthony Gordon put the Three Lions ahead 10 minutes into the second half – after a goalless, cagey first 45 minutes – came crashing down when Enzo Fernandez equalised in the 85th minute. It soured even further when Lautaro Martinez put Argentina in the lead in the 92nd minute.
Fans at Boxpark in Wembley were on their haunches, in tears, after the final whistle blew. Argentina will now face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday. Spain had already booked their place in the final after beating France 2-0 on Tuesday.
