Daily Star readers have unleashed a torrent of fury over Argentina players waving a banner referencing the Falkland Islands during the World Cup, with many calling for FIFA to kick the team out of the tournament. The controversy erupted after Argentina players displayed a banner reading 'Las Malvinas son argentinas' (The Falklands are Argentine) following their semi-final victory.
Outrage Over Falklands Banner
One reader, S. Ferguson from Knightswood, Glasgow, wrote: 'Argentina MUST be kicked-out of the world cup! IF england players had waved a FALKLANDS flag fifa would hav kicked us out.' Another anonymous reader added: 'If fifa has got any balls left and trump allows every argy player holding that banner should be banned. Instantly.'
Reader Anon2 stated: 'Argentina, forget about regaining the falklands. Never goin to happen.' The banner, which has sparked a diplomatic row, was waved by players including Lionel Messi after their win.
Gary Lineker Under Fire
Former England captain Gary Lineker also faced criticism from readers for referring to the Falklands by their Argentine name, Las Malvinas. One reader wrote: 'why doesnt that creep lineker crawl back under the stone he surfaced from? 4a former england capt to call THE FALKLANDS, LAS MALVENAS is traitorous.'
Lineker had used the term during a broadcast, drawing ire from fans who view it as a betrayal of British sovereignty over the islands.
England's Performance Criticized
Despite England reaching the semi-finals, readers were critical of the team's tactics. Spratty from North Yorkshire said: 'Hard lines England! But you cannot expect to sit on a 1-0 lead against the likes of Messi.' Another reader, Leo F., commented: 'This hold what we go goes back to mexico 70 when Sir Alf took off Sir Bobby when leading against the Germans!'
Firebird offered a more positive take: 'I am PROUD to be English 48 teams and we made the last 4. Let’s give the LIONS a rousing reception coming home not as yrs gone by no welcome at all. The England lads left us a proud nation.'
Other Topics: Referee, Politics, and More
Readers also mocked the referee, with Harry quipping: 'i never knew that referees at football matches were allowed to take thier guide dogs with them, especially if argentina were playing, probably why they won the world cup & last nights match, just saying.'
On a political note, one reader commented: 'England out, oh well back to pronouns and illegal migration.' Another, Bolton Bird, referenced the Falklands War: 'I recognise that white flag the argentinian football team waved on wednesday. The same one they waved over Port Stanley in 82.'
Reader Phil Leeds added: 'Amazed how delerios people can get over a game of football if only they were as passionate about serious things in life.'
